3D Printing

For any designer, engineer, scientist, inventor or enthusiast - 3D printing offers the potential to turn big ideas into three-dimensional reality.

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What is 3D Printing?

3D printers take data from a computer generated model and translate that into a real, solid form. The two most popular methods are FDM and SLA. Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is a process where small amounts of plastic are heated and fused together layer by layer to create a three-dimensional structure. Steriolithography (SLA) works by using a laser to solidify a photopolymer (light reactive plastic) resin. The UV light is projected onto a point in the resin, causing it to become solid one layer at a time.

It is already making an enormous impact in prototype development by giving the designer the ability to go from an idea to a physical object within hours. In contrast, creating prototypes using conventional methods can take weeks and is often costly. This all adds up to a faster turnaround on projects, months shaved off the design cycle and a whole lot of money saved in the process. The potential applications for 3D printing cross a huge range of business sectors from interior set modelling, architectural design and dentistry to rapid product prototyping and scientific and structural research.

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3D Systems

3D Systems is a pioneer in 3D Printing. In 1989 3DS was the first to invent 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and to commercialise it. Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry’s benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories. RS Components stocks a wide range of FDM and SLA 3D printers, printing materials, scanners, printing software and accessories for same day dispatch.

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Professionally Approved Products for 3D Printing from RS

RS, Professionally Approved Products, gives you professional quality parts across all product categories. Our range has been testified by engineers as giving comparable quality to that of the leading brands without paying a premium price. RS offers you the entire range of products which are essential for 3D printing from 3D Printers, Filaments, Software and essential tools.

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