Description
The job of 3D printing technicians is to produce physical 3D representations of computer-generated models. 3D printing, named after the three dimensions of every object: height, width and depth, responds to the need to create prototypes more quickly and economically than is possible with computer-aided design, based on design files (CAD, which stands for Computer Assisted Design).
3D printing technicians work with industrial companies or services bureaux in the modelling and prototyping sector. The increasing application of 3D printing in the prototyping and production processes of industrial companies has given rise to several 3D printing companies offering their services and know-how.
These professionals mainly use the additive manufacturing technique, which involves the 3D printer depositing material in a series of very thin, successive layers to create an object from a digital format. The main advantage of this printing over other manufacturing methods is that it eliminates design restrictions, such as the possibility of demoulding in parts manufactured by injection moulding and facilitates the printing of more complex parts where assembly is often eliminated, making it possible to generate a mobile part and eliminating the process of assembling the parts that would form this assembly with traditional manufacturing.
Initially, 3D printing technology was used for the manufacture of prototypes and models for sectors such as architecture and industrial design, but thanks to the reduction of costs and the increase in available materials and technologies, 3D printing is increasing its presence not only in the industrial field, but also in the domestic, advertising, artistic, training and in the generation of human tissues. Currently, 3D printers can print in any material, thus expanding their potential as a manufacturing resource. Thus, materials used for printing include nylon and other plastics, stainless steel (mainly in powder form for compaction technologies) and other metals such as titanium, silver and gold. Paper and food (mainly chocolate, sugar or meat) are also used. And it is applied in the following industrial fields: automotive, food, medicine, arms, aviation and aerospace, jewellery, architecture and fashion.
Tasks
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Centre per al desenvolupament professional Porta22
Barcelona Treball (Porta22)
Llacuna, 156-162, 08018 Barcelona
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Monday to Friday from 9 to 18 h