3D Printing Technology: A Beginner’s Guide to Key Terms and Concepts

3D printing is a fascinating technology, but for beginners, it can also feel overwhelming. With numerous materials, technologies, and complex terminology, starting your 3D printing journey may raise a lot of questions. You may find yourself wondering if SLS is the same as SLA or if PA is similar to PLA.

But don’t worry! We’ve put together this handy guide to help you understand the most common 3D printing terms. By familiarizing yourself with these acronyms, you’ll feel more confident as you dive deeper into the world of 3D printing.

Key 3D Printing Terms Explained

AM – Additive Manufacturing
Additive Manufacturing is another term for 3D printing. It refers to processes where materials are added layer by layer to create 3D objects. Unlike subtractive manufacturing, which removes material to form an object, additive technologies build up material to achieve the final design.

ABS – Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
ABS is a popular thermoplastic material used in 3D printing, particularly in FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers. It’s a tough and durable plastic that melts when heated and is used to create solid, high-quality models.

CAD – Computer-Aided Design
CAD refers to the software used to create, modify, analyze, and optimize designs for 3D printing. Engineers and designers rely on CAD programs to produce the 3D models that will later be printed.

DMLS – Direct Metal Laser Sintering
DMLS is a laser-based 3D printing technology that uses metal powders to create high-precision metal parts. A high-powered laser sinters (or fuses) the powdered metal to form solid objects, and this method is commonly used for printing with metals like aluminum and titanium.

FDM – Fused Deposition Modeling
FDM is one of the most popular 3D printing technologies. In FDM printers, thermoplastic materials like ABS are heated and extruded layer by layer to build up a 3D model. It’s a widely used process, especially for home 3D printers.

FFF – Fused Filament Fabrication
FFF is a term synonymous with FDM. It was coined to describe the same process but was used in early 3D printing projects like RepRap to avoid patent restrictions on FDM.

MJF – Multi Jet Fusion (HP)
MJF is an HP technology that uses a fusing agent to melt fine powder into solid parts, similar to Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). It produces flexible, strong parts with high detail and is commonly used to create polyamide models.

PA – Polyamide
Polyamide, commonly known as nylon, is a popular material used in 3D printing with SLS technology. It offers great flexibility and durability, making it ideal for functional parts. PA can be printed in various colors and finishes and is known for its strength and versatility.

PLA – Polylactic Acid
PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic commonly used in FDM 3D printers. Made from renewable resources like corn or sugarcane, PLA is easy to print with and offers a sweet scent when melted. However, it’s more brittle compared to ABS.

SL/SLA – Stereolithography
SLA is a 3D printing method that uses liquid resin hardened by ultraviolet (UV) light to create 3D objects. It’s known for producing high-precision models with smooth finishes, often used for large-scale or detailed designs.

SLS – Selective Laser Sintering
SLS is a powder-based 3D printing technology that uses a laser to sinter fine powders into solid structures. Unlike other methods, SLS does not require a support structure, allowing for more complex and intricate designs.

STL – Stereolithography File Format
STL is the standard file format for 3D printing. It contains information about the geometry of a 3D model and is supported by most CAD software and 3D printers. Though the name is often associated with stereo lithography, it is also considered to stand for “Standard Triangle Language.”

TPU – Thermoplastic Polyurethane
TPU is a flexible, rubber-like material used in 3D printing. It’s strong, durable, and offers flexibility and elasticity, making it ideal for printing items like phone cases, gaskets, or wearable products.