Keeping it cool with internal fluid channels

This application concept was designed by Steve Cox from AMFORi to showcase one of the many possible ways that metal FFF technology can improve existing processes.

Steve used his experience working alongside partners in a wide range of different industries to identify a valuable use case that leverages the unique advantages of metal printing on UltiMaker printers.

Challenge

When milling metal using a cutter tool, the cutting head needs to be durable and heat-resistant. Custom tool heads can be costly and a variety of different heads are often needed to machine a single part.

Solution

This concept face milling cutter head is a perfect example of an application with requirements that only metal FFF printing can meet.

Not only is it made from durable and heat-resistant stainless steel, but it's also been designed with internal fluid channels that can be used to keep the head cool during operation.

Even after printing, it's possible to machine the central hole of the head so that it can be mounted on any size of bore, giving it increased flexibility. And also to harden the steel by heating the head to 500°C and quench it in oil, making it a truly functional prototype.

Results

Using 3D printed cutter heads would allow you to print any number of cutter head design variations with custom coolant passages to optimize flow, heat transfer, fluid deposition speed, and chip clearing.

The result would be an extreme level of flexibility and adaptability.

Bring cutting-edge MFFF technology in house

This part showcases the many ways metal 3D printing can achieve breakthrough results in the production of functional stainless steel prototypes.

Click below for more explore more MFFF application inspiration. Or discover how to buy the UltiMaker Metal Expansion Kit for yourself.

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Meet the Metal Expansion Kit