New Aquablast F1
The automotive industry is just one example of many who use the concept of rapid 3D prototyping, an automatic construction of physical objects using additive manufacturing technology. The protoype is formed from a CAD drawing, then the machine transforms them into thin, virtual, horizontal cross-sections and then creates successive layers until the model is complete. In conjunction with a Formula 1 team, Vixen Surface Treatments have developed a machine to enable users to speed up their prototyping. Once the prototype has been formed from the resin by the laser passing through, it emerges covered in residual wet resin. It would normally be a labour intensive procedure to wash the residual resin form the prototype and prepare it for painting. The Aquablast F1 has been developed to both remove the resin and etch the part ready for painting – saving valuable time in an industry where many prototypes are made. The principle of the machine is to finely blast the parts with a citrus based solvent mixed with water and fine abrasive. This slurry is then blasted at the components to achieve the finish. In order to use this solvent, the machine has been modified due to the effects on the rubber components. For more information on the Aquablast F1, please contact the marketing department on 01642 769333