Got to visit the 16 foot tall Part Daddy Printer

I would print aero pieces for flow visualization testing before laying the piece up in carbon fiber or fiberglass. Engine blocks for mockup and test fitting, transmission cases for the same, so many possibilities.

 

Did you see the engine block they printed on a 3D Systems SLA machine?

You could also print positives for CF/Fiberglass molding

 

Mike, the molds are a goal of mine. Print the parts for testing and validation, then print the molds so I can use the more expensive materials for final testing and production. Makes the test process MUCH cheaper than I was having to do.

I did see the SLA block. I want to print one so bad.

 

This is the problem with 1 large axis.

Your print volume doesn't always align with the most logical way to print, and both of those don't always agree with what will give you the strongest part (how the layers are formed vs. the shape used, like how a right angle printed in XY is alright, but otherwise it will easily snap if it's not filleted)

I guess in that sort of case you'd likely have to do a "dip" in another material that would strengthen the part as well as reduce the appearance of lines.

 

Does this thing use a heated bed?
And do they use hairspray or blue painters tape? Lol