3D printing/fabrication

The 3D printer is a machine that builds finely detailed plaster sculptures using data from 3D-modelling software. With this remarkable technology, you can quickly and inexpensively transform your design ideas or scientific data into hand-held, concrete reality.

3D printing is valued in commercial settings for its ability to streamline the design process. Prototype designs that once had to be milled or molded by hand can now be “printed” in a matter of hours, and at a fraction of the cost of older methods. This printer, a Spectrum Z™310 MonoColor 3D Printing System, by Z Corporation (www.zcorp.com), uses inkjet printer head to selectively harden thin layers of plaster dust with a glue-like binding agent.

How Does It Work?

How Does It Work?

The 3D printer works with 3D data files in ZBD or STL (stereolithograph) format. These files can be created with popular commercial programs like AutoCAD or Rhino3D, SolidWorks, or 3D Studio MAX . Using ZBD or STL files as source data, the machine “prints” cross-sections of your model on a bed of plaster dust, using a sugar-water binding agent instead of ink. Wherever the binding agent touches the plaster, the dust hardens, creating a solid cross-section of the digital model. The printer continues adding and hardening layers of dust until the model is complete. The model is then excavated from its bed of plaster dust and gently air-cleaned.

 

Prices and turnaround time:

Prices and turnaround time:

$2.00 per cubic inch volume of material used.

Models can usually be printed within 48 hours, provided that the model has no geometric irregularities that make it unprintable. Models are also printed on a first-come, first-served basis; this could affect turnaround time.

What are the models like?

What are the models like?

The completed models are durable enough to hold, study, and pass around. For a extra durability, they can be coated with thin layer of super glue . Each layer of the models is .004” (0.1mm) thick, so a high level of detail and precision is possible. The maximum size the machine is capable of printing is 8” x 10” x 8” . The printer can build models of great complexity. Models may have hollow sections, interlocking pieces, and even functional moving parts.

 

What can I use the models for?

What can I use the models for?

  • Visualization of scientific data.
  • Turning computer modelling projects into hand-held sculptures.
  • Experimenting with new product or part designs (a common industrial use of this technology).
  • Making replicas of valuable or rare items.

These are just some of the potential uses of 3D printing. New uses for this young technology are being devised all the time.