A 3D printer is a kind of machine that is capable of making a three-dimensional solid object of virtually any shape from a digital model. 3D printing is achieved using an additive process, where successive layers of material are laid down in different shapes. This process is also called rapid prototyping.
The resolution of current printers are among the 400x400x600 DPI (xyz). The accuracy is from 0.025mm to 0.05mm per inch. The model size (build envelope) is up to 1000x1000x1500mm.
Nowadays 3D printers are getting more and more affordable and you could buy one with a good quality for less than a $ 1000. Here is a list of the most commercialized 3D Printers compared by price.
Below are the names of the biggest manufacturers on the market (for home and office use):
- Makerbot Industries
- Objet Geometries
- Z Corporation
- Stratasys
- 3DSystems
- Ultimaker
- 3D Stuffmaker
Check the Reprap and MakerGear Mosaic projects if you would like to build your own 3D printer.