3D Printing Application: The coolest project of 2024 (so far)

The uses of 3D printing in the manufacturing industry are incredibly varied. The ability to build complex geometries from low cost materials on short lead times is especially appealing for low volume tooling and fixturing.

Earlier this summer, Playground Equipment Services of Cincinnati, OH contacted GZERO Additive to produce molds for a new playground feature design, similar to a giant rock climbing handhold. These parts consist of soft rubber mulch bound together in a low temperature process. Because the surface of the finished part is textured, layer lines in the molds have no impact on the surface of the finished molded part. This eliminates the need for sanding and finishing of the mold surfaces.

At around 12lbs/5.5kg, the 3D printed molds weigh considerably less than standard cement molds, making the part removal process easier. The components of each mold take about two days to print from Recycled PETG on a GZERO Additive 43 Series 3D printer.

There are thousands of applications that leverage 3D printing’s unique advantages, but it is always fun when a new one shows up right around the corner.