"Since the release of the first commercially available 3D printer in 2009, a thriving consumer market has developed, with a huge variety of kits now available for the home constructor. In their short existence, these printers have developed into capable machines able to make robust and useful objects in a wide range of materials. 3D Printing for Model Engineers - A Practical Guide provides the first truly comprehensive guide to 3D printing in the context of other creating engineering-based hobbies. It covers using 3D Computer Aided Design; 3D printing materials and best practice; joining and finishing 3D printed parts; making your own metal castings from 3D printed parts and building your own 3D printer. Filled with real world examples and applications of 3D printing, this book is based on practical experience and is the essential guide to getting the most from your 3D printer"--Publisher description.;Introducing 3D printing -- How to print 3D -- 3D printing on the web -- Computer aided design -- The properties of 3D prints and printing material -- Getting the best from your printer -- Making the best of supports -- Design tips for 3D objects -- 3D design challenges -- Joining 3D printed parts -- 3D printing for making castings -- Finished 3D printed parts -- Building a 3D printer -- Sample workshop projects.