Casting is one of, if not the, oldest techniques used to create metal parts.  By pouring liquid metal into molds, complex shapes can be made simply, and even geometries that would be impractical to machine (thin and spindly, for example) can take shape quickly.  Pouring the metal is quick, but making the mold isn't always easy.  But with a wax 3D printer and plaster investment, it comes about as close to easy as I think the process can get!  In this article I'll run you through the process, in the context of a small art piece being cast from a silver-copper alloy (Ag/Cu).

One of the many things that drew me to the 3D printing process is its versatility.  Whether you need to prototype a mechanism, make a repair part, create a series of end-use parts, or make a piece of art, odds are that you can do it -- or at least get started -- with (the right) 3D printing technology.  Art isn't something that we have the chance to pursue very often at POP given our typical schedule rushing mechanical parts out the door, but we recently had some time to make a piece for the shop that we think is worth highlighting.  

We all know that FDM technology can make pretty tough parts, with genuine engineering-grade polymers like ABS, polycarbonate, and even Ultem (PEI) plastics.  Building these materials within a precisely heated chamber, a la Stratasys, with servo-controlled extrusion ensures that even z-strength, which is the weakest direction of FDM printing, is as high as possible.  Just how strong are these parts?  We put a couple of exotic materials to the test to find out!

It’s beyond doubt that Bambu produces incredible 3D printers. They make absolutely beautiful parts right out of the box, with an ease of use that is practically unparalleled across hobbyist and even professional 3D printers. But how do they stack up against Stratasys FDM?