Hey guys!
So, am I assuming correctly, instead of an adhesive spray being laid down with each layer, a CO2 laser is used to fuse each layer? If so, neat.
Close 
. We will specifically use a YAG laser because CO2 lasers (due to their long wavelength) are pretty ineffective at melting metal.
might want to just join the reprap projects that deal with 3d printing...It's unclear what you would have to offer to a brand new initiative.
You might want to look at the thread where this whole idea came from... check the reprap forums - general catagory (as I can not post links).
That is really cool may need to start saving
And
I can think of a variety of ways it could be done, but I doubt anything like this will reach consumer pricing. What would be your hopeful retail estimate?
Considering that commercial systems start at $680,000 we have our work cut out... the biggest hurdle to an affordable price is the laser - we are hoping that it will cost no more than a small car.
so basically MIG welder + solidoodle = 3d metal printing
One of the avenues we are pursuing (although there is not much info on it at the moment) is induction printing where the print head is an induction heater that melts the wire as it is extruded, so, in a way, yes!
Seriously though, laser fusing particles per layer instead of gluing them sounds promising.
Price per unit would be scary and imagine the material costs... People would go from creating a filastruder to some sort of automated fine grinding from scrap metal machine.
This is the most promising technology so far because it allows us to create ANY geometry (everything is supported by the powder) the parts come out ready to use (no post processing except polishing) and are fully strong, equal to forged parts!
And then the stories of explosions as people try to grind aluminum into powder. yikes
That would not be too good an idea...safety is a major concern, from high power lasers to flammable powders, there are certainly more dangers associated with 3D Metal Printing. It makes sense to take the proper precautions and have clear cut DO's and DON'Ts.
Also, as I recall from skimming through the reprap.org forum for metal printing, there were also some important gas contamination issues needing sealed control chambers or vacuums to get the best results.
Mo' money, mo' money!
The reprap metalicarap project uses EBM (electron beam melting) which requires a high vacuum and mucho $. A laser does not require a vacuum. We do need an inert argon atmosphere however, because powdered titanium burns in the presence of oxygen (think ingredient in fireworks).
Best, Jethro.
