When choosing a 3D printing technology, it is essential to first determine the desired properties of the final print. Here are the key factors that can influence your decision:

1.1 Srength:

• Mechanical strength: Determines the printed object’s resistance to mechanical loads, such as bending, stretching, and compression. It is crucial to identify the forces the printed elements will be subjected to and choose the appropriate 3D printing technology (recommended technologies: SLS and DMLS for high-strength parts).
• Impact resistance: Indicates the printed object’s resistance to impacts and fractures. Important for elements exposed to dynamic loads. Check the material specification for impact resistance and choose the appropriate 3D printing technology (e.g., flexible plastics for FDM technology).
• Temperature resistance: Some applications, such as engine parts, require materials that can withstand high temperatures (e.g., PEEK – Polyetheretherketone for FDM technology).
• Chemical resistance: For some applications, especially in the chemical industry, it is crucial that printed elements are resistant to various chemicals (e.g., PPS – Polyphenylene Sulfide for FDM technology).
• Environmental resistance: 3D printed elements may be exposed to various environmental factors, such as moisture, UV radiation, or changing weather conditions. It is essential to choose materials and technologies suited to the environment in which they will be used (e.g., ASA – Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate for FDM technology).

1.2 Accuracy:

• Printing resolution: Indicates the level of detail that can be achieved in the printed object. It is expressed in micrometers (µm), and the lower the value, the higher the resolution. For simple projects, a resolution of 100-200 µm may be sufficient, while for complex details and miniaturization, a resolution of 50 µm or higher is required. Higher resolution allows for printing more complex geometries, enabling the creation of more detailed and precise models (e.g., DLP allows for creating very detailed and precise models)
• Dimensional accuracy: Indicates the accuracy of replicating the dimensions of the digital model in the printed object. Important for fitted elements requiring high dimensional tolerance. Check the 3D printer specifications for dimensional deviation and tolerance of printed details (e.g., DLP technology used for creating mechanical parts or electronic components)

1.3 Appearence:

• Surface quality: Determines the desired appearance of the printed object, including color, texture, and surface finish. Smoothness is important, especially for interacting elements or those requiring further processing (e.g., painting, gluing). Choose the appropriate 3D printing technology (e.g., DLP for smooth surfaces).

1.4 Biocompatibility:

For medical applications, the material must be safe for the human body, which is crucial in producing implants and prostheses. Check the biocompatibility certifications of materials such as titanium, known for its low reactivity and high biocompatibility. Additionally, choose a 3D printing technology that allows for printing with biocompatible materials, such as DLP technology.

• Sterilization capability: Indicates the ability to sterilize printed objects for medical applications. Ensure compatibility of materials and 3D printing technology with sterilization processes such as autoclaving to ensure the safety and hygiene of medical implants and prostheses.

1.5 Cost:

• Material cost: The price of filament, resin, or printing powder can significantly impact the total production cost. Compare material prices for different 3D printing technologies and choose the most cost-effective solution.
• Production process cost: Consider the costs of energy, consumption of consumables (e.g., photopolymer resins), and maintenance of the 3D printer.

1.6 Other factors:

• Printing speed: The time it takes to print a single object can affect production efficiency and throughput. Compare the printing speeds of different 3D printing technologies and choose the optimal solution for production needs.
• Scalability: The ability to expand the 3D printing system with additional printers and software is crucial for companies planning production growth. Check the scalability of the 3D printing technology and choose a flexible solution that can accommodate future needs.