3D Printers - How do they work?

What is 3D printing?

• A manufacturing technique to create physical objects from digital models
• A technique to create 2D images
• A method of producing electronic devices
• A process of designing software

How does a 3D printer work?

• By printing a thin plastic layer on to a bed, then moving up to print another layer
• By melting metal and shaping it into objects
• By using lasers to cut and form materials
• By assembling pre-made parts

What is the extruder in a 3D printer?

• The nozzle that deposits the plastic onto the object
• The platform where the object is printed
• The software used to design the object
• The cooling system for the printer

What axis does the extruder move on?

• X and Z axes
• X and Y axes
• Y and Z axes
• X, Y, and Z axes

What is the function of the filament in a 3D printer?

• It is the plastic material used to create the object
• It is the software controlling the printer
• It is the motor moving the extruder
• It is the cooling system

What is the purpose of the heated bed in a 3D printer?

• To help stick down the material and prevent warping
• To cool down the printed object
• To provide a visual guide for the printer
• To control the movement of the extruder

Which material is commonly used in 3D printing for its non-toxic and biodegradable properties?

• PLA (Polylactic Acid)
• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
• PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)

What is a key characteristic of ABS compared to PLA?

• It is more hard-wearing and has a higher melting point
• It is more flexible and has a lower melting point
• It is biodegradable and non-toxic
• It is transparent and has a higher melting point

What is an STL file?

• A file format storing polygons with three vectors and an accompanying normal
• A file format for editable 3D models
• A software used for slicing 3D models
• A type of 3D printer

Where can you find pre-existing designs for 3D printing?

• Thingiverse.com
• Amazon.com
• Wikipedia.org
• YouTube.com