Thomas de Groot <tho### [at] degrootorg> wrote:
> On 22-7-2013 10:09, clipka wrote:
> > That's the marvels of modern 3D printing.
> >
> > AFAIK shapeways actually print a wax model, and then die-cast it in
> > bronze steel; but there are 3D printers out there that work directly
> > with bare metal, using either sintering or depositing processes.
>
> Really? I thought it went through a casting process... But then of
> course, I have not been following closely the developments of the
> technique.
>
> Thomas

For creating objects from stainless steel, Shapeways actually does not use a
die-cast either. As far as I understand it, glue is printed on thin layers of
metal powder, which results in a fragile structure. This then is post-processed
into a strong metal object. I assume by first removing unused powder and next
hardening it, presumably by applying heat, but now I am just guessing. Some
details can be found here: https://www.shapeways.com/materials/steel

Anyway, I find it fascinating that you can model something from your own home,
and have it subsequently realized in 3D, in a whole range of materials. This was
the first object I had printed in stainless steel, but I have used 3D printing
before to prototype a puzzle I designed. At that time, I used a cheaper, plastic
material. Cool stuff.

Erwin

Post a reply to this message