3D Printing

Essay by h_StrausbaughHigh School, 10th grade November 2014

download word file, 2 pages 0.0

Strausbaugh 3

Heidi Strausbaugh

Mrs. DiSanza

Microsoft Office 1

2 October 2014

3-D Printing: Endless Possibilities

The introduction of 3-D printing is shifting the production of objects from the factory to the home. 3-D printing is an additive technology in which objects are built up in layers in a process that at the current time takes several hours. However, it enables consumers to free themselves from traditional suppliers and gives them the choice to express their own ideas, customizing the product to each individual. Many people will be able to find a use for their own high-tech printing gadget. Because of this, 3-D printers will appeal to all ages, interests, and businesses.

From elementary aged children to senior citizens, every stage of life could utilize a three dimensional printer. Many kids would love to make their very own toy to play with, or a senior citizen to assist in their hobbies.

For example, The Sunnyvale Public Library in California has recently opened up its two printers for the public to use, absolutely free. Teenagers print out designs for their art classes in school, and adults tinker with "anything from a smart phone holder to an elephant with legs that can actually move." Clearly, the market for 3-D printing is wide open.

Printable firearms, household objects, medical implants, jewelry, racing-car parts, customized mobile phones, and even printable buildings are only a few of the items that technology has enabled us to create using 3D printers. Printing with materials such as nylon, waxes, photopolymers, and cement, products are being produced to fit our needs as our world becomes more and more advanced. With this diverse variety of finished products, owners of a 3-D printer can make just about anything imaginable. This means that each person's interests will be met by the...