3D printing has become extremely popular in the market. But one at the same time cannot deny the benefits of prototyping too. As time and technology are advancing, different materials are being introduced in the market, which is proving to be helpful for all. Engineers and designers have benefited a lot due to 3d printing and rapid prototyping. Both of these are used in additive manufacturing.
Although people consider it to be the same, it is necessary to determine that both are different.
What is 3D printing?
3D printing refers to the process of creating a 3D digital model of the product. Anything that you see on the screen can be turned into a reality with the help of a 3D printer. This, it easily converts any image into a physical object. An advanced printing technology with nozzle and printing head is used for 3D printing.
What is rapid prototyping?
Rapid prototyping (RP) or prototyping is mostly used in the additive manufacturing process to ensure faster creation. It can only be completed using additive manufacturing technology and printing.
Thus it can be concluded that although they have similar meanings, they are used for different industries. But it is not only the industry, but other factors also contribute to the difference between 3D printing and prototyping.
How are both different?
- Price
Rapid prototyping and 3d printing have significant differences in their product pricing. This is usually because of the involvement of materials, labor, and system maintenance. While 3D printing is affordable, rapid prototyping is not. As per experts, rapid prototyping can cost the double of 3d printing.
3D printer maintenance is pretty expensive. Thus, it needs to be taken care of properly. But, rapid prototyping system maintenance is far more costly than 3D printers.
- Materials
The materials play an important role. Rapid prototyping offers a wide range of material choices that are not usually available with 3D printing. With time, 3D printing material choices are increasing, but it isn’t as vast as rapid prototyping. 3D printing is limited to materials such as PVC and plastic. However, rapid prototyping can be used for ceramics as well.
Both 3D printing and rapid prototyping are extensively used in the market. The Lezar3D prototyping works towards offering the best. Both technologies have proven to be extremely beneficial for overall product development while maintaining ease in the complexity of designs. This is bringing about huge profits to the businesses, thereby maintaining productivity and growth.
