How a 3D printer works can vary depending on the type of printing it's doing. Use this guide to understand the variations in materials and technique.

3D printers are slowly becoming a bigger part of our lives thanks to its speed and needing fewer resources. But just how do these printers work?

Here are a three different intersections of 3D scanning, 3D printing, and CAD along with a few words on how well each can be expected to work.

READ MORE: DfX: How Design for Excellence Guides Product Development Diamond seal manufactured with DMLS 3D printing technology at Protolabs.

Marine Makers: How I MEF Troops Are Putting 3D Printers to Work From generator covers to car parts, a Marine describes how additive manufacturing helps his unit get on with its mission.