The annual Formnext 2019 exhibition in Germany has successfully concluded. This international trade fair showcasing new manufacturing technologies always features a dazzling array of 3D printing brands vying for attention. When discussing recent breakthroughs in 3D printing technology, the three most common technologies— SLS , SLA , and FDM— are primarily engaged in a tug-of-war between manufacturers focusing on precision and complexity. However, this healthy competition has also significantly improved the usability of printed materials. Our correspondent from 3DM will personally take you there to show you: (Further reading: Beginner's Guide: Comparison and Principles of Common 3D Printing Technologies )
Metal 3D printing can be said to be the highlight of this year. Many developers are working to overcome the shrinkage problem after 3D printing . All the products on the table are metal 3D printed products. The cross-section shows a fine hole structure, making the metal printed parts lighter and more economical in terms of materials.
The shiny, smooth Tyrannosaurus Rex skull is also made of all- metal 3D printing , and the price of making one of this size is still not low.
Why is this 3D-printed all-metal electric guitar displayed in the showcase so valuable? Because it's an instrument actually provided to a local rock singer for a concert performance! This indicates that its precision and sound quality have been recognized, making it a truly groundbreaking exhibit among 3D-printed metal instruments on display.
Next, we saw the exquisite "wax tree" displayed by the DWS photopolymer 3D printer, which can be said to be a great helper for small-batch manufacturing. The "wax tree" is an important process before lost-wax casting is converted into metal. Before metal 3D printing became more mature, it was the most common application method for converting 3D printed models into metal.
Since wax resin directly affects the metal infusion effect, the prototype of 3D printing is crucial. The blue jewelry sample is one of DWS 's 3D printing resins , with a very delicate molding structure.
Besides photopolymerization, the end applications of FDM are also increasing. The exhibition shows finished products that can be directly used in large-scale developments, ranging from furniture to automotive applications.
Next is the post-processed motorcycle model made with SLS . From right to left, it is 3D printing , putty spraying, and metallic paint. The visual effects and details are excellent, and even the ultra-fine suspended pipes are very complete.
The complex structure applications that SLS is famous for have also brought about software advancements. In terms of SLS 3D printing technology, the more space is filled in the printing space, the more cost and time is saved. In the past, such objects were arranged and combined optimally by engineers. In the new automated software, the computer calculates and automatically arranges them in the most space-saving way. Not only were successfully arranged samples exhibited on site, but the speed was also 30 times faster than before!
The SLS 3D printed rhinoceros once again demonstrated different types of structural applications and effects. Emerging technologies also put designers' skills to the test, enabling global industries to grow together.
The design of the color powder spray 3D printing is also amazing. Because it can produce a transparent effect, it performs excellently in the prototyping of bottle models. Customized 3D printed bottles like the one in the picture may appear in the near future. Of course, this is once again thanks to the designers' amazing creativity, which makes our correspondent want to collect them.
Finally, we visited our Ultimaker booth. The Ultimaker staff were showcasing recent industrial application examples, and many material manufacturers were also seen using the Ultimaker 3D printer for development and testing. As the general distributor, Sandima was also proud to be a part of this.
Metal 3D printing has been a key development focus in recent years, while other 3D printing technologies tend to break through limitations and create new possibilities. As seen in the global 3D printing survey data released in 2019, 67% of companies have begun to notice the rise of 3D printing . Now is the perfect time to join the ranks of digital manufacturing! (Further reading: Global 3D Printing Sentiment Analysis! Which country ranks first? )
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