3D Metal Printing

[Drastic]

Not just plastic any more.

http://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=9595

[bill]

Too bad the metal they're using melts at room temperature and costs a lot of $$.

[dogboy]

That's why MIM (metal injected molding) is the sh## in the gun industry, but it's not for the home mechanic yet... but it can make gun parts.

MIM's precision in its dimensional manufacturing processes, as compared to conventional manufacturing processes, is ideal for producing small to large runs of complex parts, which are available in different alloys, including steel and stainless steel.

MAIN ADVANTAGES
-Complex, intricate parts produced in large quantities;
-Dimensional tolerance of +/- 0.3%;
-Quality surface finish;
-Theoretical density of +98% obtained;
-Minimal per unit cost;
-High tensile strength;
-Minimum weight of 0.1g.

- http://www.taurusmim.com/

[littleman]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVOQVZuQ3XM

At about 15 minutes this vid shows large scale 3d metal printing via welding technique.  At about 10m it shows industrial 3d printing via laser.

[werty]

At this place you can do some metals in 3d and it is pretty inexpensive:
http://www.shapeways.com/

Not sure if you have ever seen it. Sort of a neat idea. Like a place to make your own stuff or sell your designs.

Look at the materials: http://www.shapeways.com/materials