Makers, entrepreneurs and small business owners are finding new ways to grow businesses. They’re also discovering new opportunities in the realm of 3D printing, 3D scanning and CNC machining. You no longer need to be a large company or manufacturer to have access to these services. All you need is an idea and a passion for making things. Even if your business is still in its infancy, you will find plenty of creative ways to grow your business using these modern manufacturing tools. This article provides insights on how 3-dimensional (3D) printing, 3D scanning and CNC machining can help you grow your small business as an entrepreneur or as a part owner of a larger company.

3D Printing

3D printing is currently one of the hottest areas of manufacturing. It uses an additive manufacturing process that builds up layers of material to create an object. This is different from conventional techniques that use subtractive manufacturing, which involves the removal of material from an existing product to create a different one. Creating a physical object with 3D printing allows you to produce many variations of the item to satisfy specific needs. This has enabled designers to create customized items that were impossible to make conventionally before. You can now make things like toys, jewellery, functional household items and even medical implants. The printing process itself also allows for some creativity. You can create textures and designs that are not possible with other manufacturing methods. What’s more, 3D printing allows you to produce items that are lighter and stronger than ever before.

3D Scanning

3D scanning is the process of taking a physical object and converting it into digital data. You can then use this data to create an object that is virtually identical to the original object. This can be used to create a replica of a physical item like a sculpture or a piece of furniture. It can also be used to create digital models that can be used for marketing and are more affordable than traditional manufacturing methods. There are a number of different types of 3D scanning that can be used to create digital models. These include: - SLA 3D scanning: This process uses a high resolution SLA (Stereo Laser Auto-fusion) or SLM (Single Laser) to create high-quality models. SLMs are the most commonly used type of 3D scanner. They work by directing the laser onto the subject, which is reflected back to the scanner. This creates a 2D image of the object. SLMs are versatile and can work indoors or outdoors, although they require a flat, horizontal surface to operate optimally. They can produce high-resolution models from light to medium-weight materials. - Rigid-body 3D scanning: Rigid-body 3D scanning is a type of laser scanning that uses a non-SLM type of scanner to create models. It works by using multiple laser beams to project a 3D model of the object onto the subject. This type of scanning is more cost-effective and is suitable for creating models from a wide range of materials. - SLAM 3D scanning: This type of 3D scanning uses an algorithm to create a model of the object. It works by making multiple passes over the subject to create a detailed model of the item. This is ideal for scanning large items that cannot be easily moved, such as a building or a sculpture

CNC Machining

CNC machining is similar to 3D printing, but instead of creating layers of material, it uses a machine to cut materials using a programmed algorithm. This produces precision parts that are as smooth and accurate as possible. CNC machining can be used to make a wide range of parts including furniture parts, jewellery, and even electronics. Like 3D scanning, CNC machining can be used to create digital models. However, it’s often used to make precision parts that require intricate designs. The best part is that you don’t need a large budget to start a manufacturing business. As a small business owner, you can use CNC machining to produce custom jewellery, furniture and other precision parts for sale to customers.

Conclusion

In today’s world, startups need to stay on top of the latest manufacturing technologies to stay competitive. You can grow your business and expand your reach with new manufacturing technologies like 3D printing, 3D scanning and CNC machining. These tools can help you design new products, create bespoke parts, and even build production-scale items. All you need is an idea and a passion for making things to make things happen.