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Author Tom Clay, President, Z Corporation; Tclay@zcorp.com
Source Rapid Prototyping & Manufacturing 2000
Abstract Although the main focus of 3D Printing is concept visualization and early stage design verification, many customers of this technology are finding uses for these models at different places in their process. With new materials, the capabilities of these tools are increasing, further expanding the range of applications beyond the design review.
This presentation will focus on several of the applications used at one customer site, Wescast Industries. They begin with the use of parts for their own design process and communication with their customers. Next they use the parts for air flow testing to verify the functional aspects of design. They use their parts for communication in the manufacturing process. Finally they use the pieces themselves as patterns for sand casting and create the initial functional parts in metal.
This combination of applications: visualization, communication, testing and pathway to metal parts shows a broad range of applications and highlights the opportunities available in 3D Printing for a range of companies. XX