What Is a Large Scale 3D Printer?
A large scale 3D printer is a 3D printer that specializes in the production of large scale objects, and is often used mainly for commercial purposes.
Until now, large objects have often been produced manually by craftsmen based on their experience. However, the use of large scale 3D printer make it possible to manufacture without being limited by experience or time.
A large scale 3D printer can also produce multiple small objects at the same time, making them more efficient than small scale 3D printers.
Uses for Large Scale 3D Printers
Figure 1. Uses of large 3D printers
Large scale 3D printers has variety of uses. For example, they can be used to create large prototypes, decorations, 3D signs, figures, interiors, and props. They are also used to produce molds for molding.
In recent years, large scale 3D printers has been used to model houses and bridges, and it is expected that they will be used in even more new fields in the future.
Principle of Large Scale 3D Printers
Figure 2. Principle of large 3D printers
There are various stacking methods used in 3D printers, and the method employed differs depending on the product.
The optical fabrication method is a method of layering by irradiating ultraviolet light onto light-curing resin, and is used in many large scale 3D printers because it is relatively quick. The thermal melting and laminating method is a method in which plasticized resin is ejected from a nozzle and laminated, and since engineering plastics can be used as materials, it is effective for modeling that requires durability.
It is important to select the appropriate product according to the application of the large-sized product you want to make.
Other Information on Large Scale 3D Printers
1. Materials for Large Scale 3D Printers
Large scale 3D printers can create objects using a variety of materials. In addition to the materials listed below, nylon, which is flexible and used for end products, polypropylene, which is strong and resistant to acids and alkalis, and plaster can also be used.
ABS
ABS is strong against bending and stretching, and is easy to process, such as polishing. However, ABS has the disadvantage of being susceptible to moisture, which can cause deformation when large products are made. Because of its low price, ABS is suitable for use in in-house manufacturing.
PLA
A naturally occurring plastic material called PLA is also often used as a material for large scale 3D printers. Its hardness and stable output make it suitable for creating large products. However, it is not suitable for processing such as polishing.
Metallic materials
Some models can handle metal materials for advanced products. Aluminum, copper, titanium, steel, etc. can be used as materials, but of course these materials are expensive, so they are mainly used for industrial applications.
2. Price of Large Scale 3D Printers
Although the price of 3D printers has been decreasing in recent years, the price of large scale 3D printers are generally high.
The price of a large scale 3D printers for industrial use ranges from 500,000-1,000,000 for a model that can handle a variety of materials to several million or more for one that can realize large-scale manufacturing. The main price range for high-class 3D printers that are capable of coloring and handling materials such as metals and ceramics is 5 million or more. This class of product can produce not only prototypes but also final products.
3. The Future of Large Scale 3D Printers
Figure 3. The future of large-scale 3D printers
Large-scale 3D printers are expected to be used in a variety of fields. For example, in the construction industry, large scale 3D printers are being used to model houses and bridges. In the future, this is expected to help solve the shortage of engineers and realize more efficient construction.
In the automotive industry, large scale 3D printers are also being used to model bodies, tires, and other components. In recent years, with the trend toward EVs, the timing is right for the need for new equipment, and more attention is being paid to the use of 3D printers.