This video demonstrates the current process and technology involved in creating 3D printed steel parts. Currently metal 3D printers utilize ‘binder jetting technology’ for 3D printing of functional parts for prototypes and short run production. This video demonstrates the process and technology involved in creating dense and usable parts.
Right now the use of metal parts is in its infancy. It’s only really useful for prototypes or non-stress bearing items. The wide-scale use of most 3-D parts is still some way aways, largely because there are no standards or testing protocols in place to ensure product safety or consistency.
But the technology is catching on with hobbyists, fashion designers, architects and industrial manufacturers who need to get a handle on what a piece will look like, or where it will fail. In biomedical uses the technology is already proving its worth as it can be adapted to the needs of individual patients.
If you want to make something from plastic, you can get a 3-D printers for around $400 these days.