In some ways this is a continuation of ‘The Laser Project’ but because there are many ways in which 3D Printing can be achieved I thought it perhaps deserves its own thread. The method I have decided to initially follow is that of Selective Laser Sintering.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Selective_laser_melting_system_schematic.jpgMy initial model is only 2D (about 3mm thick) and was produced in just two layers using a simple stacking frame – this has, however, given me sufficient confidence to start building a larger frame or jig with a moving Z Axis base that will allow models up to 60mm deep to be produced on my existing machine without any additional modification. If this is successful, who knows?
My initial inspiration for trying this came from the Candy Fab project and more details of their progress can be found here
http://candyfab.org/Although I accept that the quality of my initial model is not very good I think that by using fusible materials which have a finer grain structures things can only get better.
I would appreciate your comments / suggestions relating to this or 3D printing in general.
Tweakie.