Impossible Objects is developing a 3D printer that can use composite materials to challenge traditional manufacturing methods to create parts for industries such as automotive and aerospace.
Source: Startup unveils 3D printer that can build carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass parts
Lucas Mearian recently reported on Computerworld that a new startup has cracked the code in additive manufacturing that allows for the accelerated printing of composite materials such as kevlar and carbon fiber.
The company “Impossible Objects” uses what it calls a composite-based additive manufacturing method (CBAM) that combines composite materials with Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and other high-performance polymers to build the strong, yet lightweight parts.
In the featured image there is a “A print job from the Model One 3D printer depicting the versatility of shapes and objects it can create.” This printer boasts a 100x speed in crafting components over conventional 3D printers. The CBAM technique is “10X stronger”.
In creating this technique they are the first company on the market to offer a composite component as they are working with companies already. The Chief Commercial Officer formerly worked for Boeing, but only one company has been disclosed as using the new additive manufacturing parts created by the company.
3DShoes is keenly interested in this because the latest Nike cushioning technology ZoomX is using a full length carbon injected plate within the midsole. While the applications for the technology are obviously important in aeronautics and heavy equipment manufacturing, if a carbon fiber plate can be developed and implemented into footwear in a way that is not an infraction on Nike’s patent this opens an entirely different lane for designers and manufacturers looking to enter the performance footwear market via 3D printing.
The cross section of an airfoil printed on the Model One composite 3D printer.
The cross section of an airfoil printed on the Model One composite 3D printer.
This is definitely a project to keep an eye on. Use the source link to visit ComputerWorld for a detailed discussion.
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