Thursday, September 22, 2011
Abstract
This proposal falls under the STF category “Scientific and Fabrication”. The proposed equipment is a Fortus 400mc 3D FDM (fused deposition modeling) system from Stratasys which would provide a great resource for University students across several disciplines. This machine has the capability to rapidly print parts from CAD models using standard ABS plastics, as well as specialized high strength and high temperature resistant materials, a feat which cannot be achieved using other 3D printing technologies. Currently, the only rapid 3D modeling machines available for student use on campus are powder-based systems which create very brittle and delicate models with limited precision due to the particulate nature of the printing medium. The Fortus system would provide University students robust rapid prototyping, the ability to create high strength end-use parts directly from a CAD model, and the ability to quickly make high temperature autoclave molds for aerospace-grade composite structures at a significantly reduced cost, which are all capabilities that the University currently lacks.
Background
University students across many disciplines, from engineering to the arts and sciences, often require prototype models. While the ME department has 3D printing equipment, the powder-based system produces low-strength, brittle, and rough parts which are not suitable for thin-gauge models, cannot produce finished surfaces, nor create end-use parts. These shortcomings impose great limitations on the size, shape, look, and durability of the part students are able to make, which falls short of the current capabilities of 3D printing technology. The Fortus 400mc FDM machine represents the cutting edge of 3D printing technology and resolves these shortcomings, allowing for students to expand the type and quality of the models and parts that can be produced. This machine also introduces the capability to manufacture directly from CAD to final end-use parts thanks to the impressive range of high strength materials that can be used. In addition to this, the Fortus 400mc also prints in materials specifically engineered to produce high temperature resistant molding tools for making aerospace-grade composite parts in an autoclave.
The addition of this machine would allow University students access with the modern technology for rapid prototyping and direct digital manufacturing which is used across several industries, but cannot found at other Universities. The exposure to such technology would set UW students apart and ahead, applicable in any engineering, scientific, or design industry.
From: http://ping.fm/i64qc
This proposal falls under the STF category “Scientific and Fabrication”. The proposed equipment is a Fortus 400mc 3D FDM (fused deposition modeling) system from Stratasys which would provide a great resource for University students across several disciplines. This machine has the capability to rapidly print parts from CAD models using standard ABS plastics, as well as specialized high strength and high temperature resistant materials, a feat which cannot be achieved using other 3D printing technologies. Currently, the only rapid 3D modeling machines available for student use on campus are powder-based systems which create very brittle and delicate models with limited precision due to the particulate nature of the printing medium. The Fortus system would provide University students robust rapid prototyping, the ability to create high strength end-use parts directly from a CAD model, and the ability to quickly make high temperature autoclave molds for aerospace-grade composite structures at a significantly reduced cost, which are all capabilities that the University currently lacks.
Background
University students across many disciplines, from engineering to the arts and sciences, often require prototype models. While the ME department has 3D printing equipment, the powder-based system produces low-strength, brittle, and rough parts which are not suitable for thin-gauge models, cannot produce finished surfaces, nor create end-use parts. These shortcomings impose great limitations on the size, shape, look, and durability of the part students are able to make, which falls short of the current capabilities of 3D printing technology. The Fortus 400mc FDM machine represents the cutting edge of 3D printing technology and resolves these shortcomings, allowing for students to expand the type and quality of the models and parts that can be produced. This machine also introduces the capability to manufacture directly from CAD to final end-use parts thanks to the impressive range of high strength materials that can be used. In addition to this, the Fortus 400mc also prints in materials specifically engineered to produce high temperature resistant molding tools for making aerospace-grade composite parts in an autoclave.
The addition of this machine would allow University students access with the modern technology for rapid prototyping and direct digital manufacturing which is used across several industries, but cannot found at other Universities. The exposure to such technology would set UW students apart and ahead, applicable in any engineering, scientific, or design industry.
From: http://ping.fm/i64qc