
3D Printing in the Aerospace Industry
3D printing transforms fashion with innovative designs.
Multi Jet Fusion is a powder bed fusion technology that builds up the manufactured parts layer-by-layer.
First, a movable unit distributes a thin layer of thermoplastic powder. Another movable unit, moving in the orthogonal direction, is equipped with two infrared lamps and a dosing system for the agents to be distributed on the powder bed. The first lamp preheats the powder bed to just below the melting point. Unlike other additive manufacturing technologies, MJF does not require an energy-consuming laser.
Next, the fusing and detailing agents are then applied. Finally, another fusing lamp is attached to this moving unit, fusing the powder to the underlying layer where the fusing agent was applied. This fusing agent increases the absorption of the material for infrared radiation and ultimately causes the grayish discoloration of the components. The detailing agent evaporates during this process and ensures no surrounding powder melts onto the contour. This process ensures sharp edges and dimensional accuracy.
This process begins again for the next layer.
Multi Jet Fusion is usually used for prototypes and functional prototypes. This technology is especially suitable for prototypes that require good mechanical properties (e.g., prototypes for injection molding parts) or need to be used for testing. It is also capable of producing high-quality end-use parts. Plus, unused powder can partially be reused for the next production cycle
As most MJF materials are biocompatible, the technology is often used for orthotics and prosthetics.
Managing Director and Co-Founder at Hopper Mobility
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3D printing transforms fashion with innovative designs.
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In additive manufacturing, printing a part is just the beginning. Post-processing techniques add the finishing touches, making the difference between a basic prototype and a final end-use product. One popular method in polymer-based 3D printing is vapor smoothing, which utilizes chemical vapor to achieve a smooth finish. But what exactly is this process, how does it transform 3D-printed objects, and when should you use it? This article closely examines vapor smoothing, which can help produce high-quality, aesthetically pleasing parts. Understanding Vapor Smoothing In short, vapor smoothing turns a freshly printed part’s rough, layered surface into a sleek, glossy finish. The result resembles parts made from traditional manufacturing methods, such as injection molding. A part that with no finishing (except for dyeing to turn it green) vs. a part that has been vapor smoothed. Vapor smoothing is a controlled chemical process at its core. The 3D-printed part is placed in a specially
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