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Drafting Insights: That's 3D Printed?

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Drafting Insights: That’s 3D Printed?

Additive manufacturing has been around for decades. Once just for prototypes and small-scale production - now used in a wide range of applications.Let’s explore some of the most surprising 3D-printed innovations.

Bioprinting Human Organs for Replacement.

-    Materials: Patient cells + organ-specific biopolymer hydrogels.

-    Model: MRI/CT scan-based custom designs.

-    Methods: Bioink extrusion or laser bioprinting.

-    Availability: Experimental - viable advanced organs still 20-30 years away.

-    Why It Matters:
- Over 105,000 people await transplants.
- More than 17 die each day waiting.

Lightweight Strength, Aircraft Ready.

-    Materials: Ti64 alloy in powder form.

-    Model: 3D CAD model.

-    Method: Wire arc DED process via Rapid Plasma Deposition.

-    Availability: Soon to take flight, undergoing flight testing.

-    Why It Matters:
- Titanium delivers a higher strength-to-mass ratio vs. aluminum.
- Enhanced performance in a more compact form.
- Opens up new possibilities for optimizing part designs.

Homes, Printed in Days.

-    Materials: Cement blends or bio-resins(sawdust mixed with a corn-based binder).

-    Model: Architectural CAD plans.

-    Method: Giant 3D printers extrude wall structures.

-    Availability: Prototypes in testing worldwide.

-    Why It Matters:
- Around 1.6 billion globally people lack adequate housing.
- 3D-printed frames can be built in 24-48 hours.

From life-saving organs to lightweight aircraft part to houses, 3D printing is reshaping the future.

What would you 3D print next?