Large Scale Central

3D printed parts to be used on the real deal

I thought this would be interesting to y’all who are doing this work, and who also would know what they are talking about here!

3D printed components to be tested on passenger trains03 Feb 2019

The parts were printed using Stratasys’ fused deposition modelling technology, and structurally assessed by ESG Rail. Standard thermoplastics which have traditionally been used for 3D printing can have poor mechanical properties and fire performance, making them unsuitable for rolling stock applications. However, new materials including the Stratasys Antero 800 NA PEKK-based thermoplastic are capable of complying with UK rail standards.

https://www.railwaygazette.com/news/technology/single-view/view/3d-printed-components-to-be-tested-on-passenger-trains.html

Well, I suppose using PEKK to print parts for our garden railroads would solve the issue of standing up to the outside elements. But, at $650 a kilo (https://largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-surprised.gif)Interesting though. Thanks for posting.