When it comes to 3D printing, new technologies are being introduced every year. Additive manufacturing is a valuable tool that helps businesses innovate and cut down the time and cost of the designing processes. Before buying, it is wise to consider the features of desktop and professional 3D printers to ensure that you achieve your production goals. Let’s deep dive into the key specifications of both technologies to help you make a fruitful investment.
What are the Features of Desktop 3D Printers?
The demand for desktop 3D printers in Canada has grown in the last decade. This is because they are budget-friendly and accessible compared to professional ones. Furthermore, the addition of new configurations makes them ideal for small businesses.
Here are some of the features of Desktop 3D Printers:
- Technology: Most desktop 3D printers use the Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technology. They are based on material extrusion and the layer-by-layer deposition method.
- Applicability: These are suitable for prototyping and small-scale production.
- Material Compatibility: The material most commonly used is PLA and ABS filament. PETG is also rising in popularity, thanks to its easy printability.
- Costing: Desktop 3D printers in Canada typically cost less than $5000.
- Size: They are small, compact, and designed for home use.
What Are the Features of Professional 3D Printers?
Professional 3D printers are high-end counterparts to desktop ones. They are more efficient, reliable, and expensive than desktop variants.
Key Specifications of Professional 3D Printers:
- Technology: Professional ones come armed with many technologies, such as FDM, SLA, Polyjet, and more. If you are thinking about prototyping large items, FDM is the ideal choice. However, if you want to print fine details, you should opt for .
- Applicability: These 3D systems are applicable for resin 3D printers a wide range of productions. They have a large printing area for rapid prototyping, concept modelling, and manufacturing moulds.
- Material Compatibility: Materials that are engineering plastics, such as ABS, PC, and others with high tensile strength and thermal stability and usually chosen.
- Costing: These are high-end 3D printers in Canada that generally cost more than $5000.
- Size: The size may vary. A general rule of thumb is that the higher the resolution, the more weighted the system will be.
A Comparison of Both the Technologies
Now that we know the key features of both the 3D printing technologies. Let’s see how they compare side-by-side in terms of design capabilities.
| Parameter | Desktop 3D Printers | Professional 3D Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | The accuracy is sufficient, but not suitable to print complex parts. | Better control over the processing parameters. Can print complex parts with higher dimensional accuracy and fine details with ease. |
| Customization | Limited | The technology offers flexibility, advanced settings and unlimited customization opportunities. |
| Software | Easy-to-use interface. Most support cloud printing and ideal for amateurs and beginners. | The system requires professional handling. |
Final Thoughts
The advancement of desktop 3D printers has accelerated the adoption of 3D printing for small businesses. However, it still needs further advancement when compared to professional 3D systems. Keeping in mind your organization’s cost, project requirements, design needs, and other parameters, you can invest in the one that best suits your needs.
We Have the Best Collection of 3D Printers in Canada!
At Filaments, we feature a range of professional and desktop 3D printers, materials, and accessories to ensure that you get the best for your organization. Whether you are a hobbyist or an enterprise, we are a one-stop destination for your 3D printing needs.
For queries, contact us at 1-888-536-5551 or write to us at info@filaments.ca to learn more about our 3D printers in Canada!