Here are the best 3D printing tech for your custom 3D figures

 

Toy collectors often enjoy the typical toy hunt of limited edition figures. 

However, due to the pandemic toy convention and other related activities were put in a halt. That did not stop collectors from getting their coveted figures though.

Limited edition ones are hard to find though. That is why many collectors are turning into 3D printing to get their own figures. Not to mention, the customization they can get from this kind of service. 

 

3D Printing Technologies for Custom 3D Figures

 

3D printers create 3-dimensional parts from CAD models. This is possible by adding layer by layer material until a physical part is formed. We list the best 3D printing technologies to get if you want to 3D print your coveted figures.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

This is also known as fused filament fabrication (FFF). For the consumer level, this is the go-to 3D printing process. Due to its nature of melting and extruding thermoplastic filament and deposits layer by layer to build areas, it provides less detailed prints. 

FDM creates larger and more visible layer lines. That is why it is good for cheap and quick 3D printing figures where fine surface or more details are less important. 

For the post-processing for FDM, you might only require support removal. But that is not always the case, especially for more complex figures where FDM requires extra support structure. Which may be difficult to remove and require sanding to hide or remove the marks off the finished product.

Stereolithography (SLA)

This is the most versatile and precise 3D printer on the market today. This uses vat photopolymerization or resin printing. This delivers finely detailed figures with high surface quality using various materials.

SLA 3D printer prints high-resolutions for custom 3D figures, models and even for miniature human figures Philippines. Even the smallest  prints can have top quality details. 

This also requires a medium-length post-curing process or post-curing options in some cases. Its support structures are easy to remove as well. Therefore won’t affect the figures itself. 

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

This 3D printer uses a high-powered laser to fuse small particles of polymer powder. As it does not need a dedicated support structure, this is ideal for intricate figures and complex geometries. 

The 3D printed figures often have a grainy surface but with no visible layer lines. Also, it uses thermoplastic nylon that is both functional for prototyping and end-use production. 

Binder Jetting

This is similar to SLS printing as it uses a binding jet to bond material instead of heat. This is commonly used in creating full-color figures. It also requires no support structures. However, some parts of the final print are often very brittle and have high porosity.

That is why it is not good for figures with complex designs. As parts may fracture during the post-processing due to its unstable material. 

 

Post-processing Techniques for Custom 3D Figures

 

Here are the different post-processing techniques often used in 3D printing. It is good to note however, that these steps are not required for all projects. As it also depends on what 3D printers are used. 

Here are the 5 common techniques:

1. Cleaning

This involves removal of hanging support structures, removal of excess powders and further cleaning of the 3D printed objects. 

2. Fixing

These post-processing includes filling some small holes or cracks. Sometimes even to attach together parts that have been printed separately. It includes the following steps:

• Filling – this is to repair unwanted holes or cracks
• Glueing and welding – this is to connect parts through welding or glueing using acetone

3. Curing or Hardening

This is possible using curing machines that heat the 3D printed figures to bring the prints to its highest mechanical properties. Aside from enhancing the superficial characteristics of the prints, it also enhances the physical quality of the custom 3D figures. 

4. Surface Finishing

This is one of the most important steps to suit the taste of consumer markets. As this makes it appear more pleasing to the eye. The following happens in this step:

• Sanding – this is the process to remove layer lines or touch-points where support structure was attached. This is possible by carefully sanding the surface of the custom 3D printed figures using sanding paper.
• Vapour or Chemical Smoothing – chemical is sometimes used to smoothen the surface. Such vapours react with the outer layer of the object. Layer lines melt away, leaving a smooth surface and a glossy look. Chemical agents often used are acetone and Tetrahydrofuran (THF). 

5. Colouring

Custom 3D printed figures can be printed using coloured material. Customers can also opt for colouring during the post-processing stage to suit your requirements. 

• Coating and Painting – often custom 3D printed figures are off-white or dirty white and therefore look bland and boring. Coloring and painting is done manually using a brush or spray. Some use machines to automate spraying of parts. 

 

These are specific post-processing for each 3D printing technologies

 

	3D Printing Technologies	Post-processing Techniques
Cleaning	FDM and Material Jetting	There are two types of support material for these types of 3D printers. These are soluble and insoluble. In soluble support material there is lower risk of damaging the 3D printed figures. As this can be dissolved in water or chemical called Limonene While insoluble support material is strong and can only be removed using knives or pliers. Damaging the 3D print is high risk and can damage the model if not careful.
	SLS and Powder Bed Fusion	Powder residues can cling or remain in the 3D printed figures. Such as in holes or more complex crevices inside the model.  Removal of these excess powder is removed manually or automatically using tools that vibrate or rotate to remove the powder.
Washing	SLA and Photopolymerisation	This is easiest to clean as it only requires minimal washing which uses isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to clean the parts.

 

Best Place to Order Custom 3D Printed Figures? 3D2GO Philippines

 

As a pioneer of 3D printing services in the country, we cater to a lot of industries for their 3D printing requirements. 

We also cater to the consumer level and provide impeccable 3D printing services such as custom 3D printed figures, bobbleheads, cake toppers, and so many more!

3D2GO Philippines strives to provide quality 3D prints for all consumers and businesses. Aside from this, we also provide 3D scanning, 3D designing, 3D rapid prototyping, and 3D reverse engineering. 

Contact us today and let us start your project!