MX3D-Metal

Is a work in process project that aims to create an affordable multiple axis 3D printing tool available for consumers and proffesional workshops around the world. After developing our MX3D-resin printer last year we again used an industrial robot, but now together with an advanced welding machine we are able to print with metals, such as steel, stainless steel, aluminium, bronze or copper without the need for support-structures. By adding small amounts of molten metal at a time, we are able to print lines in mid air. The combination robot/welding is driven by different types of software that work closely together. This will eventually have to end up in a user friendly interface that allows the user to print directly from CAD. We are developing printing strategies for the different kinds of 3D printable 'lines'. For instance, vertical ,horizontal or spiraling lines require different settings, such as pulse time, pause-time, layer height or tool orientation. All this information is being incorporated in the software.

3D printing like this is still unexplored territory and leads to a new form language that is not bound by additive layers. Lines can be printed in that intersect in order to create a self supporting structure. This method makes it possible to create 3D objects on any given working surface independently of its inclination and smoothness in almost any size and shape.