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Or single-run custom parts. Great if you need something that is no longer being made or isn't readily available. Just as you say, there are advantages of moldin
by TrevorJ 17y ago
Or single-run custom parts. Great if you need something that is no longer being made or isn't readily available. Just as you say, there are advantages of molding/stamping, but it all depends on the situation.
- krschultz 17y agoThats true, but think of the typical situation where you need a custom part - to replace a broken one. I have a car from 1961 and one of the pieces I've had trouble replacing is the king pin (i.e. the pin that the front tires rotate around on a rear wheel drive car). It wasn't designed strong enough so it breaks commonly. They are not made anymore and it is difficult to replace. This technique wouldn't help me one bit because if cast steel didn't do it, then powdered steel sure isn't. On the other hand the jewelery idea is probably a good one, strength properties don't matter too much. You are right that it is all about the situation, but I see too many people that think 3D printing is somehow going to revolutionize the manufacture of physical things, its not. It may work in really specific instances, but thats about it, and if I had to buy 1 manufacturing machine for my home/business it would be a CNC controlled mill not a 3D printer.