3D Printing

Digital Light Processing Aids Creation Of Miniature Tank

EnvisionTEC’s Perfactory® 3 Mini Multi LensDigital Light Processing 3D Printer has been used to create an intricate miniature figure cast of an antique tank. Riga, Latvia based Artig specializes in producing high-quality historical and military miniatures using a range of modern technological solutions such as three dimensional modelling, 3D scanning and 3D printing alongside traditional methods like molding, and casting. The company provides a figurine-on-demand service and was recently approached by Mini-koleso to produce a model of the tank in 1:35 scale.

 dlp 3d printed tank 3d printing industryGladbeck, Germany based EnvisionTEC already provides solutions to one of the most renowned miniatures retailers, Games Workshop, with its intricate models that include the Lord Of The Rings game. For this model the level of detail was required to show the bolts and welding on the model pointed towards the use of EnvisionTEC Digital Light Processing 3D printer because of its capacity to produce a high quality surface finish, with no need for post-processing except for the removal of printing supports. The fine details were produced efficiently and effectively for a superior finish without concern of the required details not building.

Also factoring in the choice for this 3D printing technology and supplier was that EnvisionTEC’s materials are well suited to the spin-casting process as all of the parts were molded into silicone discs using hot vulcanization processes at 90°C (194°F).

The high level of accuracy of the initial 3D prints meant that the majority of the parts for the model fitted together at the first prototype. The ease of manipulation of a three dimensional digital model meant that a few required modded parts were a just a few hours work to bring the model to its required dimensions. From there the design was in place and the end product alloys and casting parameters were chosen, with the final model cast in tin alloy.

Mini-Koleso chose this high quality casting as a limited edition, with just fifty scale models manufactured for the company’s Rare Models category.