- they call the process "laser sintering". From the sounds of it, it
may be different to current processes.
- it is used by some mob in Adelaide, and originally cost A$600k in
1993 (around US$450k back then).
- the polymer used is usually powdered nylon.
- the process works by rolling the powdered nylon onto a platform. The
layer is then sintered by laser, solidifying the shape for that slice.
The platform then drops 0.1mm, more powder is added and rolled flat, and
the process is repeated. The unsintered nylon powder forms a support for
the new layers, and it looks like it is readily dusted off when the job
is finished.
- the process is SLOW. 10mm/hour is the quoted rate.
The company involved also has the alternative process using adhesive
backed paper.
Hope someone finds this interesting :-)
cheers
-steve