Liquid Additive Manufacturing (LAM)

German RepRap LAM launched its production ready 3D printer. LAM is aiming to achieve injection molding like part quality.

Liquid additive manufacturing (LAM) is an additive manufacturing process in which liquids (or low-strength materials) can be additively processed, such as liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or polyurethane (PU). In the future, other liquids are conceivable. The technical characteristics of the LAM printed objects and the injection molding process are almost identical. Further advantages include high process speeds and distortion-free 3D printing of any component.

L280 Model Shown here 

Specifications:

References:
Germanreprap.com

HP Showcased MJF Technologhy in Vancouver

For the first time i got a chance to check out HP's Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing technology at an event in Burnaby BC. Attendees got a chance to to listen to the experts from HP. We also got a chance to ask questions, look at the 4200 series machine and some of the printed parts.

The event was organized by HAWK RIDGE SYSTEMS. Hawk Ridge is reseller of HP 3D machines. They opened up an office in Richmond BC recently.

Some websites are classifying HP as SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) method, which is not correct.
Although MJF is one of the Bed-fusion methods but very different from SLS. I have written a blog about MJF and SLS processes in the past, please check out my previous blogs.

According to HP Team:

• MJF Parts are superior in strength as compare to any other process e.g. SLS, FDM.
• Prints are Watertight.
• Printing speed is huge advantage as whole surface is cured in one single pass.
• Printing cost is also very affordable. One full build cost roughly around $1000. The material cost around $200-300/kg depending on model of the machine.
• Recently HP launched two models (HP 500/300) for prototyping, cost of the machine is around $60k according to the rep at the event. Production system is close to $200k. More accurate Quote can be achieved from the reseller in your area.
• Thanks to voxel control on each slice you can achieve vivid colors and countless color schemes in your prints.    

Other Consideration:

• Noise level of the system is on the high side, You don't need earplugs but you don't want to sit next to it whole day.
• Infrared spew quite a bit of heat, system should not be housed in a small room without any ventilation. Otherwise no special exhaust system needed for the machine.
• Like all other powder based methods, MJF parts would need some sort of Bead-Blasting after printing.

Thanks to Hawk Ridge and HP team for putting together the event.