3D Printing

Imagine being able to print a toy instead of buying one at a store! 3D printing makes this possible. A 3D printer builds objects by adding material one thin layer at a time. You design what you want on a computer, and the printer creates it in real life. People use 3D printers to make everything from toys to body parts.

How 3D Printing Works

First, you design an object on a computer. The computer slices the design into hundreds of thin layers. The 3D printer then builds the object from the bottom up, adding one layer at a time. Most 3D printers use melted plastic that hardens as it cools. Some use metal, ceramic, or even chocolate.

What 3D Printing Can Do

3D printing is used in many fields. Doctors use it to make custom prosthetic hands and replacement bones. Engineers print parts for airplanes and cars. Artists create sculptures. Some companies are even 3D printing entire houses! NASA is testing 3D printers that could build structures on the Moon.

Fun Facts

• The first 3D printer was invented in 1983 by Chuck Hull.
• A company in Dubai 3D printed an entire office building.
• Doctors have 3D printed working human ears using living cells.

Did You Know?

In space, astronauts on the International Space Station have a 3D printer. Instead of waiting months for a replacement part to be sent from Earth, they can just print one! In 2014, they printed a wrench in space using a design sent from Earth as a computer file.