3D SYSTEMS, the developer and supplier of various additive manufacturing technologies and systems, introduced the ProJet MJP 2500, a 3D printing system specifically for wax patterns used in investment casting foundries. The ProJet MJP 2500 produces RealWax™ patterns more quickly than the injection-molding alternative process and at a lower cost, according to the developer.
“Typical production time for a 3D-printed wax pattern is a few hours or less,” according to a release. “Cost reductions for initial patterns can be significant when the cost of traditional injection molding tooling is taken into account.” 3D Systems cited a cost-comparison analysis conducted by Mueller Additive Manufacturing Solutions according to which a pattern tool for a mechanical cam cost $6,050 while the 3D-printed equivalent pattern cost less than $25. The only lead time required was the time needed to print the pattern.
Mike Stanicek, v.p. - product management, plastics, explained in an interview that 3D Systems developed the ProJet MJP 2500 IC as an extension of an existing printer series, specifically to address the wax-printing requirements of the established investment casting foundry sector. The patterns can be produced from existing designs and introduced to established workflows, he emphasized.
The system helps foundries adopt what 3D Systems described as “a digital workflow” that emphasized design freedom and wax patterns that “benefit from topology optimization, lightweighting, and part consolidation.”
Pattern designs from existing CAD files are prepared for 3D printing and managed with the proprietary 3D Sprint™ software, and patterns are produced in VisiJet® M2 ICast wax material.
The developer noted that the wax has demonstrated melt and burn-out characteristics of standard casting waxes.
The machine’s build platform measures 11.5 x 8.3 x 5.7 inches.
The ProJet MJP 2500 IC is available now in North America and will be available soon in Europe and Asia. The machine will exhibited at the Investment Casting Institute Technical Conference and Exposition this month.
Learn more at www.3dsystems.com.