Chemicals & Materials Now!
From basic to specialty, and everything in between
Rapid and Additive, But Forging?
Posted on June 21st, 2017 by Ken Klapproth in New Materials & Applications
Image by Ann Mills via Ann Mills Photography
Forging is not typically a term associated with 3D printing processes so was surprising to see when French 3D printing company Prodways recently announced its new technology. While the process does involve metal deposition, can it legitimately be classified as ‘forging’ if a hammer or press is never involved? Continue reading “Rapid and Additive, But Forging?” »
‘Spectacles’ Achieve Record Solar Panel Output for Startup
Posted on June 14th, 2017 by Ken Klapproth in New Materials & Applications
When it comes to photovoltaic cells – converting sunlight into electricity – size does matter. But by thinking functionally, a recent startup out of École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) proves double the output is even achievable with smaller surface areas. Continue reading “‘Spectacles’ Achieve Record Solar Panel Output for Startup” »
GE Patents Have a Novel Ear for Validating 3D Printing Quality
Posted on June 7th, 2017 by Ken Klapproth in New Materials & Applications
Image by Airbus via GEreports.com
3D printing may have revolutionized part design and manufacture, but uses a deposition process sensitive to consistent material delivery. By ‘listening’ to parts during the additive manufacturing cycle, engineers at GE have devised a new method of assuring parts are free from defects and voids which could cause premature failure. Continue reading “GE Patents Have a Novel Ear for Validating 3D Printing Quality” »
DARPA Gives ‘Thumbs Up’ to Boeing’s Phantom Express
Posted on May 31st, 2017 by Ken Klapproth in New Materials & Applications
Phantom Express Concept by Boeing [cropped from original] via Boeing.com
DARPA’s Experimental Spaceplane (XS-1) steps closer to realization with the Agency selecting the Boeing Company as partner. A new class of reusable hypersonic aircraft, success of the Phantom Express will require advancements in both technical capabilities and ground operations. Continue reading “DARPA Gives ‘Thumbs Up’ to Boeing’s Phantom Express” »
