3D possibility

[ironmonger]

 I ran across this on one of my other regular site visits. I can think of a few reasons why this might have some problems, but thought that i would put it out here to get some other impressions before I over thought it, or introduced my own negative ideas into the mix. One positive  thought right off the bat would be that the TIG torch might not need much flow if it operated in an enclosed argon filled space, thus reducing the turbulence associated with the TIG torch.

please see:
http://bbs.homeshopmachinist.net/threads/55863-Tig-welder-3D-printer

It strays from my '3D printer as a source for investment casting patterns' interest, but would have the advantage of working directly in steel or bronze.

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forgeiron

[Tom Gralewicz]

MIG would be easier, but both share the same problem:  precise deposition.

A good weld wants to flow into the adjacent material - making it flat and wide on a flat surface and oddly shaped on an edge.

A bad weld makes a nice little caterpillar - but it isn't well bonded to the previous layer.

The sintering process has the advantage of a built in support structure for what you are printing.

Tom

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forgeiron

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Tom Gralewicz
Miller Electronics Recycling
(414) 380-1716
www.deadcomputers.com

[Have Blue]

Rather than using a TIG torch, look into the EBM process (electron beam
melting): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7--ZWPVVdQ

As I see it, the big problem with using TIG instead is that you're not
heating up the spot directly under the electrode, you're heating up the
spot at the end of the _arc_. Generally the two are pretty much the
same, but magnetic fields can play havoc with where your arc wants to go.

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