Articles
8 Cool Parts From Formnext 2023: The Cool Parts Show #65
New additive manufacturing technologies on display at Formnext were in many cases producing notable end-use components. Here are some of the coolest parts we found at this year’s show.
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When Additive and Conventional Processes Work Together, the Result Is Manufacturing
Various recent articles demonstrate 3D printing and established processes finding one another and working together.
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Inspection Method to Increase Confidence in Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Researchers developed a machine learning framework for identifying flaws in 3D printed products using sensor data gathered simultaneously with production, saving time and money while maintaining comparable accuracy to traditional post-inspection. The approach, developed in partnership with aerospace and defense company RTX, utilizes a machine learning algorithm trained on CT scans to identify flaws in printed products.
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3D Printed Ductile Spikes for Better Sound Quality: The Cool Parts Show Bonus
Work on 3D printing flexible metal bellows has led to other applications, including the development of ductile spikes that sit between a speaker and the surface below to help limit vibration and isolate the audio equipment.
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Production AM Can Thrive in a Purpose-Built Space (But It Doesn't Need One) AM Radio #45
Fiona Lawler and Stephanie Hendrixson discuss the physical spaces where additive manufacturing is happening, from 3D printers wedged wherever they’ll fit to brand new facilities built for this purpose.
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AM 101: What Is Binder Jetting? (Includes Video)
Binder jetting requires no support structures, is accurate and repeatable, and is said to eliminate dimensional distortion problems common in some high-heat 3D technologies. Here is a look at how binder jetting works and its benefits for additive manufacturing.
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DMG MORI: Build Plate “Pucks” Cut Postprocessing Time by 80%
For spinal implants and other small 3D printed parts made through laser powder bed fusion, separate clampable units resting within the build plate provide for easy transfer to a CNC lathe.
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Flexible Bellows Made Through Metal 3D Printing: The Cool Parts Show #64
Can laser powder bed fusion create metal parts with controlled flexibility? We explore an example in this episode of The Cool Parts Show.
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More on Testing a 3D Printed Metal Bellows: The Cool Parts Show All Access
Günter Kappler, designer of the metal bellows in episode 64, describes the extent of the testing that has gone into validating the performance of these 3D printed parts.
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Additive Manufacturing in Transportation: How It Moves Us
Transportation is experiencing unprecedented pressure to move people and goods farther, faster, cheaper and more sustainably. The Barnes Global Advisors and Wabtec discuss the role that additive manufacturing is playing for rail transportation, and how 3D printed parts such as manifolds are qualified for this industry.
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Additive Manufacturing's Evolving Role at Fathom Now Emphasizing Bridge Production
Bridge production is currently the biggest opportunity for additive manufacturing, says Fathom Manufacturing co-founder Rich Stump. How this service provider leverages AM while finding balance with other production capabilities.
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Video: STEP 3D Printing at Fathom Manufacturing
Fathom Manufacturing's Fremont Technology Center now houses the first STEP 3D printer in commercial use. This video looks at how the platform works and use cases that the contract manufacturer is identifying.
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