Prototyping solutions

In 2008, we invested in a Z Corp Spectrum Z510 Full Color System, mainly because of its ability to print full-colour prototypes.

The Z Corp system produces high-definition, full-colour prototypes quickly and affordably.

The technology

Z Corp. 3D printers use standard inkjet printing technology to create parts layer-by-layer by depositing a liquid binder onto thin layers of powder. Instead of feeding paper under the print heads like a 2D printer, a 3D printer moves the print heads over a bed of powder upon which it prints the cross-sectional data. The powder is distributed accurately and evenly across the build platform by using a feed piston and platform, which rises incrementally for each layer. A roller mechanism spreads powder fed from the feed piston onto the build platform.
Once the layer of powder is spread, the inkjet print heads print the cross-sectional area for the first, or bottom slice of the part onto the smooth layer of powder, binding the powder together. A piston then lowers the build platform by 0.1 mm, and a new layer of powder is spread on top. The print heads apply the data for the next cross section onto the new layer, which binds itself to the previous layer. This process is repeated for all of the layers until the physical model is created.

Scale model of a train station