Rapid Plastic Prototyping

Incorporating Screw Threads Into FDM Parts
Screw threads are one of the most common components used for fastening parts in an assembly or attaching pipe tubing together. Here are five ways to incorporate screw threads into Fused Deposition Modeling parts, followed by some useful applications.

Threads directly from the FDM machine
Depending on the pitch and helical profile, it may be possible to design your desired thread right into the CAD file. Typically, large pitched threads on parts used for...

Last week Gardner Publishing, launched “Additive Manufacturing,” a quarterly supplement to Modern Machine Shop and its sister publication, MoldMaking Technology. A surprising move, since these publications are aimed at CNC and mold-making facility leaders.

By recalling hockey legend Wayne Gretsky’s secret to success, Senior Editor, Peter Zelinski explains why Gardner launched the publication. Gretsky said his secret was to skate where the puck is going, not where it’s been. It involves “seeing...

What could you do in the time it takes to brew and drink a pot of coffee?

Nestlé Nespresso S.A. can pour out a new iteration of its highly-designed single-serve espresso machine with caffeinated speed thanks to its Diminsion 3D rapid prototyping machine.

If you're an espresso afficianado, then you know the care, craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each tiny cup. More than 20 years ago Nestlé Nespresso developed a home-brewed option that rivals the pours of trained baristas. The...

• Recycling 10 Fortus filament canisters is the equivalent of removing a car from the road for one week.

Direct digital manufacturing of plastic parts has come a long way. But, how close are we to do-it-yourself manufacturing?

Advancements in FDM technology are making it possible to not only use additive manufacturing for rapid prototyping, but low-volume manufacturing too. In fact, muscle cars are being restored today using low-volume manufacturing. The Pit Viper, a restored supercharged 1968 Ford Mustang built by TPI (Total Performance Inc.), is an impressive example. After exploring traditional...

While many of us fantasize about that perfect sports car, Swedish supercar creator, Christian von Koenigsegg is busy designing them – with help from true-to-life prototyping with a Dimension 3D printer.

More than 300 parts make up each high-tech car with design and testing taking weeks. With a Dimension 3D printer in-house and accessible to each engineer, testing now races throughout the development cycle, with high-density plastic models and parts designed, printed and available within hours.

Rap...

One of the things I enjoy most about working in this industry is when family, friends, acquaintances ask the loaded question, "What do you do?". My answer has evolved throughout the years as I've tried to figure out the best term to use with a layman. Words like additive fabrication or even rapid prototyping don't really make sense to the average person. I just carry a small part with me on my key chain at all times.

In a recent blog post by Scott Crump, he commented on how the term rapid...

Metal plating of plastics really started to kick in around the sixties when it was discovered that ABS could be pre-treated to ensure proper adhesion of the metal film. The automotive industry was one of the first to really take advantage of the new technique. Automakers could mold trim and other exterior components into appealing shapes and give them a metallic look that inspired car lovers to ogle the beloved vehicle.

With the advent of rapid prototyping and low volume digitally manufactured...