3D Product 3D Printing Technologies 2

Question 1

What is Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) used for in product development?

Accepted Answer

Fusing metal powder with a laser to create fully dense metal parts used in aerospace and medical devices

Answer

DMLS sinters metal powder layer by layer to create fully dense, production-grade metal components with complex internal geometries.

Question 2

What is 'slicing software' in the 3D printing workflow?

Accepted Answer

Software that converts a 3D model into printer instructions (G-code) by slicing it into layers

Answer

Slicing software like Cura or PrusaSlicer translates a 3D model into machine-readable G-code by defining layer-by-layer toolpaths, settings, and support structures.

Question 3

What is 'warping' in FDM 3D printing and how is it prevented?

Accepted Answer

Warping is when corners lift from the build plate due to cooling shrinkage; it is prevented with a heated bed and proper bed adhesion

Answer

Warping occurs when differential cooling causes printed material to contract and pull away from the build surface, prevented by heated beds, enclosures, and adhesives.

Question 4

What does 'overhanging geometry' mean in the context of 3D printing design for manufacturability?

Accepted Answer

Surfaces that extend outward at angles greater than about 45 degrees from vertical, requiring support structures or redesign

Answer

Overhangs beyond roughly 45 degrees from vertical lack underlying material to print on, requiring either redesigning the geometry or adding support material.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a 'raft' in 3D printing?

Accepted Answer

A flat, horizontal structure printed beneath the object to improve bed adhesion and reduce warping

Answer

A raft is a thick, multi-layer base printed under the object that provides a stable, flat surface for adhesion and helps prevent warping on difficult materials.

3D Product Practice Test

3D Product Practice Test

3D Product 3D Printing Technologies 2