How Does a Metal 3D Printer Work? (And How It Compares to Plastic 3D Printing)
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What Is a Metal 3D Printer?
A metal 3D printer is a machine that builds 3D metal objects layer by layer from a digital design file. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that cut, grind, or cast metal, metal 3D printing also called metal additive manufacturing adds material only where it's needed. The result is less waste, faster production, and the ability to create complex geometries that are impossible with conventional tools.
In the Philippines, metal 3D printing is now accessible to small businesses, dental labs, jewelry studios, and engineering teams through desktop-class machines like the FastForm DeskFab X1, available locally from Make It 3D.
How Does a Metal 3D Printer Work? Step by Step
While different metal 3D printing technologies work in slightly different ways, the general process follows these steps:
- Design: A 3D model is created using CAD software (such as Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or Rhino).
- Slicing: The model is sliced into thin horizontal layers using slicing software, which generates the print path.
- Printing: The printer builds the object layer by layer either by fusing metal powder with a laser, binding powder with a chemical agent, or curing a castable resin that is later cast into metal.
- Post-processing: Depending on the technology, parts may require sintering (heating in a furnace), support removal, or surface finishing.
- Inspection: The finished part is measured and inspected for dimensional accuracy.
Metal 3D Printing vs. Plastic 3D Printing: Key Differences
| Factor | Plastic 3D Printing (FDM/Resin) | Metal 3D Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | PLA, ABS, PETG, photopolymer resin | Stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, castable alloys |
| Strength | Moderate and suitable for prototypes and consumer goods | High and suitable for functional, load-bearing parts |
| Cost | Low to moderate | Moderate to high (but dropping with desktop printers) |
| Post-processing | Minimal (support removal, sanding) | May require sintering, casting, or finishing |
| Applications | Prototypes, enclosures, consumer products | Dental, jewelry, aerospace, engineering, tooling |
| Printer size | Desktop to industrial | Desktop (e.g., DeskFab X1) to industrial |
Can a Regular 3D Printer Print Metal?
Standard FDM (filament) printers cannot print true metal parts they print plastic. However, there are metal filled filaments (plastic mixed with metal powder) that give a metallic appearance but lack the structural properties of real metal.
True metal 3D printing requires specialized equipment. The good news: desktop metal 3D printers like the FastForm DeskFab X1 have made professional metal output accessible without an industrial budget.
What Materials Can a Metal 3D Printer Use?
Depending on the technology, metal 3D printers can work with:
- Castable resins — Used in dental and jewelry workflows; the printed part is cast into gold, silver, or other alloys
- Stainless steel — Common in engineering and industrial applications
- Titanium — Used in medical and aerospace applications
- Aluminum — Lightweight structural parts
- Cobalt-chrome — Dental frameworks and medical implants
Which Metal 3D Printing Technology Is Right for You?
There are several metal 3D printing technologies available today. Read our full breakdown in Types of Metal 3D Printing Technologies Explained to find the right fit for your application.
Ready to Bring Metal 3D Printing In-House?
Make It 3D Philippines is the local expert for desktop metal 3D printing. Whether you're a dental lab, jewelry studio, or engineering team, we can help you find the right solution.