Hi guys, I'm interested in what 3d printing can do now for rapid prototype. For instance, could 3d printing print a whole automotive clutch or even a cooling system? Or which parts can be made by 3d printing and which not. Thanks!
The steel option that Shapeways has would not survive as a clutch for an actual automobile. Steel is closer in brittleness to cast iron. Cooling system, maybe... does it have moving parts? The steel process they have doesn't work for moving parts. Objects that large are going to be very expensive.
In general, the materials Shapeways offer are more suited to decorative rather than functional items. However if you google for direct metal laser sintering you'll be sure to find a print service that can produce useable functional parts. Paul, [hr]stop4stuff Modeller for hireShapeways Shop - Controller PendantTwitterYouTube[hr]