Out of This World

Video by Gary Sheftick

Scientists enable durable 3D printing of parts downrange

Defense Media Activity - Army Productions

Feb. 10, 2020 | 2:42

Fused filament fabrication may soon enable 3D printing of durable repair parts downrange. Dr. Eric Wetzel has been researching the physics of why most plastics do not bond with strength on inexpensive 3D printers. His invention of the thermal draw tower at the Army Research Laboratory has allowed him to fuse a polycarbonate with a low-temperature ABS polymer to form a filament that can print parts that are twice as strong and up to 20 times as durable as anything else produced using fused filament 3D printers. The items can be hardened with heat and do not melt or lose their shape like normal plastics. Dr. Wetzel believes his fused filament can soon be used in the field to fabricate durable repair parts, such as clips and harnesses for vehicle electrical systems.