Design and fabrication of gypsum prototypes based on binder jetting technology

Abstract

Abstract Binder jet 3D printing is an emerging technology in the field of rapid prototyping which has a capability of processing a wide range of materials, including metals and ceramics. The main aim of our project is to design and fabricate gypsum prototypes based on binder jetting technology. The gypsum powder is chosen for the development of green part and Sodium silicate also called as water glass is used as a binder for the gypsum based green part. These materials are low cost, easily available materials and are utilized for developing the gypsum prototypes and hence it reduces the cost of building of binder jetting machine. This paper presents our design modifications from the existing open source binder jetting machine (Oasis 3DP) to make it efficient in terms of cost, build and performance. The modifications are introduced in the build volume, binder extrusion head, support structures and gantry mechanism. With this new design introductions in the powder 3D printing machine, we can develop intricate, complex shaped gypsum prototypes and yield high green part strength. These modifications also unlock the full potential of the binder jetting technology and allow us to vision more in utilizing different types of powder materials like sugar, metallic powder, gypsum and ceramics with suitable corresponding binder.