Computer Solutions
Fig. 1. Z Corporation’s ZPrinter 350 converts 3D CAD data into monochrome physical models in a process that is almost entirely automated.
4 3D printing, in all its different forms, is now an exceptionally versatile process, capable of creating models and actual components for a variety of diverse applications. Paul Stevens reports on some of the latest developments relating to 3D printing machines and materials.
4 L’impression 3D, dans toutes ses différentes formes, est aujourd’hui un processus exceptionnellement polyvalent, capable de créer des modèles et des composants réels pour une grande diversité d’applications. Paul Stevens décrit quelques-uns des plus récents développements impactant les systèmes et les matériaux d’impression tridimensionnelle.
4 Der 3D-Druck in all seinen verschiedenen Formen ist jetzt ein außerordentlich vielseitiges Verfahren, mit dem Modelle und tatsächliche Komponenten für eine Vielzahl verschiedener Anwendungen geschaffen werden können. Paul Stevens berichtet über die neuesten Entwicklungen bei 3D-Druckern und –Materialien.
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Versatile 3D printing broadens its appeal
F
rom its early beginning, as a technique to make prototypes that could only approximate the shape and properties of the part being represented, 3D printing has come a long way. The
concept - which encompasses a range of techniques - uses layering to build up complex parts. It is still used to make prototype parts but, increasingly, 3D printing is being used to make the final, fully functional components. Industry consultancy Wohlers Associates
says that sales of rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing technologies bounced back in 2010. According to Wohlers Report 2010, demand for products and services using additive-manufacturing (AM) technologies grew by an estimated 13.9 percent in 2010. In contrast, compound annual growth rate (CAGR) had slowed to 3.3 percent over the previous three years. Nevertheless, the last 12 months has seen
many interesting developments in the field of 3D printing. Terry Wohlers, the principal author of the report and president of Wohlers Associates, states: “Using AM for part production is considered the next frontier, with opportunities beyond measure. Corporations, entrepreneurs, investors and researchers are considering ways in which AM can be used to manufacture an exciting array of products in quantities of one to several thousands.” Two distinct markets are developing for products
made by additive manufacturing: one is the professional market, which includes the medical, dental, aerospace, automotive and motorsports industries; the other is the consumer market, for products such as home accessories, toys and fashion accessories.
Entry-level 3D printers
Clearly the optimum 3D printer for a given application will depend on the type of application
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