3D printing technologies to revolutionise rapid tooling applications

September 22, 2014 12:16 pm

 Recent developments in 3D printing and direct digital manufacturing (DDM) technologies are redefining the design and manufacturing processes across all the segments.
According to Ido Eylon, GM (South Asia), Stratasys Ltd said, “3D printing is an extremely valuable tool in the injection moulding industry worldwide. It can help shorten the overall product development cycle and is more cost effective when only a few parts are needed. PIMTs (3D printed injection moulding tool) can be built really cheaply and fast, ready to inject in a few hours.” 3D printed injection mould tools are suitable for small production series but since tools cost is low, they are commercially viable also when only a few parts are needed. The Stratasys Polyjet-based 3D printed injection moulding tool (PIMT) can be built very cheaply and rapidly, and are typically ready to inject in a matter of a few hours.
PIMTs can be used to inject polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, ABS, and thermoplastic elastomers. PIMTs are printed using Objet ABS-like material which is a tough and heat resistant polymer. 
Altem Technologies is a strategic vision partner of Stratasys Ltd.  which is one of the leading manufacturers of 3D printers and 3D production systems for office-based rapid prototyping and direct digital manufacturing solutions. Altem recently showcased “trends and applications in 3D printing in a seminar held in Bangalore.
The event focused on how professional 3D printers could be used in rapid tooling applications like injection moulding, blow moulding, investment casting and jigs and fixtures among others. The event highlighted how 3D Printing offers a fast and affordable way to produce injection moulded prototypes.
Over 250 engineers from the research, manufacturing and academic segment who work on rapid prototyping and tooling attended the event and witnessed how 3D printing revolutionising this field. 3D printing enthusiasts working in aerospace, automobile and R&D sectors were also present at the seminar and explored how best they can use 3D printing in their area of work.
“The wide applications of this technology can soon be seen in various fields such as consumer goods, electronics, engineering, medical equipment, automobile, architecture, education, aerospace, defence, and design and art,” anticipates Prasad Rodagi, Founder Director – Altem Technologies (P) Ltd.