Check out the article in the link below. I know it is focused on the new engine market and quick development and deployment during the prototype stage of a new engine but it seems that this could eventually filter down into the vintage automotive market. Maybe manufacturers would be more willing to offer obsolete items if all they had to maintain was a file on a server and at the click of a button they could spit out a set of pistons (or whatever else) for an obsolete engine.
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3D printed pistons
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When I first saw this I thought all 3-d printer used plastic. Wasn't sure how that could work. I know Jay Leno was making molds for some parts on one of his shows for parts on a rare brass car. Didn't know they used other materials .
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Originally posted by 345 DeSoto View PostTHAT is amazing!...
Back when I was selling, consulting, and applying industrial supplies/tooling, I was called to a laboratory where early 3D printer technology was being developed. In my career, I have been subjected to some intense security checks when calling on prison-based industries, research facilities, nuclear facilities, and a weapons manufacturing facility. However, the 3D lab was probably the most intense security check I ever experienced. To this very day, with the exception of a very few close friends, when I mention 3D printing, you can see eyes glaze over. Printing an object with molten composite (plastic) materials is one thing, but doing it with molten metal is something I'm struggling to wrap my mind around.
As we know, heat and electronics have always not gotten along very well...managing both within a contraption requiring such precise performance...truly AMAZING!
I buy my computer supplies from a small shop. This one-man business has new, used, & refurbed 3D printers on the shelf. Some, almost for "pocket change." That in itself is amazing.John Clary
Greer, SC
SDC member since 1975
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Originally posted by swvalcon View PostI wonder if this technology could be used to build heads and intake for the Stude engine with better breathing?Gord Richmond, within Weasel range of the Alberta Badlands
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Originally posted by swvalcon View PostI wonder if this technology could be used to build heads and intake for the Stude engine with better breathing?
For something requiring less sophistication than a piston, the air blast may be a good option. I'm thinking heads, intake and coolant manifolds etc. For parts requiring higher precision, laser will probably be the better one. It's all still in the development phase but look forward to what it promises and I'm betting it's coming sooner rather than later. The quality of the plastic printing is getting to be mind blowing and if the right material is currently available, intake manifolds may already be a reality. Who knows? Are aluminum heads with individual ports like a Ford now feasible?
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