Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

Most consumer and prosumer 3D printers use FDM/FFF (Fused Deposition Modeling / Fused Filament Fabrication) technology, where plastic is melted and extruded layer by layer. Here is exactly how the process works from start to finish:

1.3D Model Creation

You design the object (or download an existing one) in CAD software (Fusion 360, Blender, TinkerCAD, etc.).

The file is exported as an .STL or .OBJ file — a mesh of triangles that describes only the outer surface of the object.

2.Slicing

The STL file is imported into a slicer program (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, etc.).

The slicer does the critical work:

a.Cuts the model into hundreds or thousands of horizontal layers (usually 0.1–0.3 mm thick).

b.Generates the exact toolpath the nozzle will follow for every single layer.

c.Adds support structures where there are overhangs > ~45–50°.

Calculates speed, temperature, cooling, retraction, infill density, wall thickness, top/bottom layers, etc.

d.Outputs G-code — a plain-text file full of commands like “move to X45.2 Y87.1, extrude 0.8 mm of filament, speed 60 mm/s”.

3.Sending the File to the Printer

4.Printer Preparation  

The build plate (bed) is leveled (manually or automatically with ABL sensor).Filament (PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, etc.) is loaded into the extruder.Nozzle and bed are preheated (e.g., nozzle 200–210 °C for PLA, bed 60 °C).

5.First Layer (The Most Important One)

The printer lays down the very first layer directly on the build plate.Perfect adhesion is critical — too high and it won’t stick; too low and it will be squashed and cause elephant’s foot.Many printers print a brim, skirt, or raft to improve adhesion and prime the nozzle.

6.Layer-by-Layer Printing

7.Support Structures (When Needed)

For overhangs and bridges, the printer extrudes disposable support material (same filament, soluble PVA/HIPS, or break-away).

8.Completion

When the last layer is finished, the printer parks the nozzle, turns off heaters, and usually beeps.The object is left to cool on the bed (important — if you remove it while hot, it can warp).

9.Post-Processing 

a.Remove the print from the bed (flex plates make this easy).

b.Cut away brim/raft/skirt.

c.Snap off or dissolve supports.

d.Sand, acetone smooth (for ABS), prime/paint, anneal, or vapor smooth as desired.