We’ve seen 3D printers used for food, game pieces, aerospace parts, car frames, bikes, and even human tissue. The primary advantage was always this technology’s ability to produce intricate parts on machines with a relatively small footprint. This capability makes production easier and quicker.
Well, a new additive manufacturing machine is taking a slightly different approach. Currently in development is a Continuous Fiber Additive Manufacturing (CFAM) 3D printer from machine builder CEAD, which carries the interesting moto of “Building Machines that Don’t Exist.”
This industrial-scale 3D printer is tackling big picture production with aims at 3D printing ships, or more specifically, luxury yachts. The CFAM printer will work with thermoplastic composites. It will be able to run 24 hours/day and reach operating temperatures of over 750 degrees Fahrenheit. A key element of the printer will be temperature management controls that allow for additively constructing large parts without warping.
Although exact specifications are not being released until the machine receives its patent, CEAD claims their new printer can put out more than 55 pounds of printer material/hour with a build envelope of 288 cubic feet, which translates to parts that are up to 12’ long.
The printer will be able to accommodate materials that include PP, PET, ABS, PLA, and PEEK plastics. The company has already received five pre-orders that should be delivered in 2019.