Stay updated with the latest developments in the world of 3D printing.
Valve and Rocket Lab Team Up to Send a 3D Printed Gnome into Space
In a fascinating development, Valve Software and Rocket Lab collaborate to send a 3D printed gnome into space to support the pediatric unit at New Zealand’s Starship Children’s Hospital. For every person who streams the launch within the first 24 hours, Valve and Rocket Lab will donate one US dollar to this noble cause.
The gnome, originally a character from Valve’s Half-Life 2 Episode 2, will be made of 3D printed titanium, measuring 150 millimeters. Unfortunately, it will be attached to the rocket’s kick stage, meaning it will burn up upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. However, the gnome’s journey to space adds to Valve’s impressive collection of memorabilia, including iconic items like the crowbar from Half-Life and the giant Valve itself.
Bugatti’s 3D Printed Titanium Parts for an Incredible Power-to-Weight Ratio
Bugatti, renowned for its luxury cars, has taken a bold step in 3D printing. They’ve used this cutting-edge technology to create titanium components for their track-focused hyper sports car, the Bugatti Bolide. This car boasts an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio of 0.67 pounds per horsepower, thanks to its W16 engine with 1824 horsepower while weighing only around 2733 pounds. This remarkable feat is achieved through the use of 3D printed titanium components, including screws, fasteners, brake calipers, and spoilers.
What’s even more impressive is that Bugatti is no newcomer to 3D printing. They have previously used this technology for various components, such as brake calipers, showcasing their commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
The Fibonacci House: A 3D Printed Architectural Marvel
20 Additive Manufacturing, a 3D printing concrete startup operating in the Netherlands and Canada, is working on a unique project called the Fibonacci House. This 3D printed house adheres to the Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical concept that lends an intriguing twist to its design.
The construction of the Fibonacci House involves using a specialized concrete mixture that allows for overhanging structures and bridging gaps that traditional concrete cannot achieve. This groundbreaking approach to construction is reshaping the future of architecture, offering more cost-effective and design-friendly options for homeowners. While 3D printed houses might not be for everyone right now, as technology evolves, they are likely to become increasingly appealing.
Desktop Metal’s Game-Changing Software: Live Sinter
Desktop Metal is revolutionizing the world of powder metal-based additive manufacturing with its new software solution, Live Sinter. This software eliminates the guesswork involved in achieving high-precision parts during the sintering process. It corrects issues such as shrinkage and distortion, making complex geometries more achievable and cost-effective. Furthermore, Live Sinter can reduce or eliminate the need for support structures in the sintering process, further streamlining production.
While compatible with various sintering-based powder metallurgy processes, Live Sinter is initially available to customers using Desktop Metal’s Shop System and Production System, making it a game-changer for the future of metal 3D printing.
In Brief: Aerospace, Composites, and More
The 3D printing world is constantly evolving, bringing us exciting developments, from space-bound gnomes to high-performance sports cars and architectural wonders. Stay tuned for more groundbreaking news in the world of 3D printing.