Additive manufacturing: 3-D printing beyond plastic

The video explores the evolution of 3D printing from plastic to metal, specifically copper. At Virginia Tech, a team led by Chris Williams is developing a cost-effective method to 3D print complex copper parts using binder jetting. This process involves jetting glue into copper powder and then sintering it in a furnace. While the technology is promising, challenges like air pockets in printed parts remain. The team aims to enhance performance by adding copper nanoparticles. The video envisions a future where additive manufacturing is used for diverse applications, from energy to aerospace.

What is the primary material used in the 3D printing vending machine at Virginia Tech?

• Metal

• Glass

• Plastic

• Wood

What is the main challenge in 3D printing with copper?

• Copper is too expensive

• Copper is a poor conductor

• Copper is difficult to create

• Copper is not durable

What is the process called that uses an inkjet head to jet glue into a bed of powder?

• Binder Jetting

• Fused Deposition Modeling

• Laser Sintering

• Stereolithography

What is one of the potential applications of 3D printed copper parts?

• Toy production

• Textile manufacturing

• Food packaging

• Energy applications

What is the expected timeline for the widespread use of the new copper 3D printing process?

• Within 1 year

• Within 10 years

• Within 5 years

• Within 3 years