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Intersting Technology

This sounds interesting, I wonder if this will reduce the weight on bigger bikes.

View attachment 56458

http://www.france24.com/en/20160520-airbus-boss-showcases-first-3-d-printed-motorbike

If they can produce consistent material properties in the 3-D print material (several companies and labs are working it) then yes, it is cool. For decades SLA has been used for investment casting patterns. Directly printing the hollow metallic structure is the new thing.
 
I'm not versed in 3d printing, but from a lay metallurgical perspective, it's hard to see how metal deposited in layers can be optimized for the desired material properties, while still being compatible with the process.

It's like MIM parts versus forged parts... MIM facilitates production but forged is stronger.

3d printing seems like it would be one big weld at best.
 
Airbus, and others, have been 3D printing things like turbine blades (easier than machining them) for some years now. If you can print a turbine blade, you can print a bike frame - if they can get the cost down.
 
Airbus, and others, have been 3D printing things like turbine blades (easier than machining them) for some years now. If you can print a turbine blade, you can print a bike frame - if they can get the cost down.

Airbus doesn't build turbine or compressor blades. GE, Pratt and Rolls-Royce do that. The development and certification of 3-D printed parts for critical components is a work in progress.
 
I'm not versed in 3d printing, but from a lay metallurgical perspective, it's hard to see how metal deposited in layers can be optimized for the desired material properties, while still being compatible with the process.

It's like MIM parts versus forged parts... MIM facilitates production but forged is stronger.

3d printing seems like it would be one big weld at best.

You hit the nail on the head....
 
Who says it has to be metal? Lots of interesting stuff happening with other materials. Those other materials may not be winners *now,* but stay tuned...
 
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