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Old 10-01-13 | 04:39 PM
  #7  
repechage
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Originally Posted by JohnDThompson
Rivat plastic slotted cleats:

Those are probably nylon, there are a few resins that come close. Big effort is the data file to drive the printer. The model has to be mathematically complete, this takes effort beyond it looking like a part on screen.

As far a metallic parts, that is coming... BUT secondary processing ( heat treating / micro fusing) kills off dimensional stability. So, secondary machining is necessary. Even then the strength is comparable to lower cost sintered parts not investment cast, stamped or forged parts.

As a wax pattern for investment casting of low volume parts, killer. But the one off costs to get the parts molded places it at the "I need this really badly and am willing to pay whatever it takes" region right now.
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