Now, the service bureau is going outside of the realm of 3D printing technology, offering their new Laser Engraving service, a subtractive manufacturing technique that will complement their vast 3D printing ecosystem. Their newly implemented method uses a laser beam to change the surface of an object, and is generally used to create engraved images upon a material. Determined by the inputted 2D file, the highly heated laser vaporizes the selected material matter, exposing the final image in the form of intricate cavities. The method useful for engraving small objects like jewelry and other ornaments, and is compatible with a wide range of material surfaces, including metal, plastic, wood, leather, and glass.
To prove this, Sculpteo utilized both their selective laser sintering (SLS) technology and new laser engraving method to create a sleek 3D printed drone. Although 3D printing was beneficial for creating the drone shell and motor mounts, the SLS technology was limited by its dimensions and costs. Thus, Sculpteo decided to laser cut the flat and large parts, such as the drone’s arms and hood, into a 3mm thick black acrylic (PMMA) sheet. In addition, the laser engraving process also allowed Sculpteo to add a logo, information, and markings for installation onto the drone body.
For consumers, Sculpteo will offer 60 variations of materials stemming from four families, plywood, acrylic (PMMA), cardboard, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Both the laser engraving and laser etching services are still in beta, and Sculpteo seems eager to receive feedback on their new service. In fact, the first 50 customers to order with their new fabrication technique will receive a complimentary laser cut Maya Pyramid Model. Like the aforementioned drone, Sculpteo utilized both additive and subtractive manufacturing methods to create the colorful pyramid.
The pyramid’s base, steps, and the cap that holds it all together are 3D printed in black polyamide, while the ten colorful layers in the center of the pyramid are laser cut from 30 of the 60 materials (using all four main varieties) that Sculpteo has to offer with their new service. Not only is the pyramid — based on the Maya Temple of Kukulcan, from Chichen Itza — easy on the eyes, it also comes apart into pieces, allowing the the beholder to feel the texture of each laser cut material. Thus far, it’s unclear how many consumers have ordered with the laser engraving or laser etching service, but the radiant pyramid is essentially a thank you to early users who can provide feedback and help Sculpteo further develop their latest technology.
It’s easy to see how laser engraving and laser etching will work to enhance Sculpteo’s 3D printing capabilities, as well as their consumers. After all, 3D printing technology is at its best when a complementary process helps push it forward, as Sculpteo has already shown through their 3D printed drone and elegant pyramid prize. So, if you’re as excited to see what this newly implemented technology can do for your ideas, or just want a chance to win your own Maya Pyramid Model, join in on Sculpteo’s laser engraving and laser etching beta program. Discuss in the Sculpteo Unveils Laser Engraving to Enhance 3D Printing forum over at 3DPB.com.
[Source: Sculpteo]