Category: 3D printing

August 18, 2025
NASA Unveils 1,000x Stronger, Heat-Resistant 3D-Printable Alloy
Key Takeaways
1. NASA developed a new 3D-printable alloy called GRX-810 that can withstand high temperatures in jet and rocket engines.
2. Advanced computational modeling allowed NASA scientists to identify the ideal alloy blend quickly, reducing research time significantly.
3. The new alloy demonstrated exceptional performance, showing double the strength, three and a half times the flexibility, and over 1,000 times the durability compared to existing materials.
4. The manufacturing method used, “resonant acoustic mixing,” evenly distributes nano-oxide particles to enhance the alloy’s strength.
5. Elementum 3D is commercializing the technology and working on GRX-810-based sensors for jet engines in collaboration with Vectoflow.
The recent innovation from NASA’s Glenn Research Center presents a solution to a persistent issue in the aerospace field — the absence of a cost-effective 3D-printable material capable of enduring the intense heat found in jet and rocket engines. The newly created substance, an oxide dispersion strengthened alloy known as GRX-810, showcases unmatched performance and durability.
Advanced Modeling Techniques
To achieve this breakthrough, NASA scientists utilized computational modeling, successfully identifying the best alloy blend after just 30 simulations. Typically, this kind of research would require years of experimentation. The team, led by materials engineer Tim Smith, then applied a unique manufacturing method called “resonant acoustic mixing.” This technique involves evenly distributing nano-oxide particles, which serve as a strengthening agent, throughout a mixture of powdered metals such as nickel, cobalt, and chromium.
Exceptional Performance Results
NASA reports that the new alloy performed remarkably well during testing. At temperatures reaching 2,000 °F (1,093 °C), it exhibited double the strength, three and a half times the flexibility, and over 1,000 times the durability compared to the best existing alloys.
This innovation marks a significant milestone in material science. The creation of new, stronger, and lighter materials is crucial as NASA looks to revolutionize the future of aviation. Traditionally, enhancing tensile strength would reduce a material’s capacity to stretch and bend before breaking, making this new alloy particularly impressive. — Dale Hopkins, a deputy project manager at NASA.
Commercialization Efforts
The technology is being commercialized by Elementum 3D, a company based in Colorado, that has secured a co-exclusive license for the alloy, which is patented by NASA. Elementum 3D is already collaborating with Vectoflow to develop GRX-810-based sensors designed for jet engines.
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Tags: aerospace industry, GRX-810, NASA
August 11, 2025
Bambu Lab Launches H2D Pro: Ethernet, Nozzle, and Filtration Upgrades
Key Takeaways
1. The H2D Pro 3D printer features a multicolor printing system and a new single filament dryer.
2. It includes enhanced security with an Ethernet port, physical kill switch, and WPA2-enterprise Wi-Fi authentication.
3. The Pro model has a Tungsten Carbide nozzle for improved durability and an upgraded high-performance fan for higher operating temperatures.
4. The H2D Pro offers enhanced VOC and particulate matter filtration for better air quality.
5. The package includes the printer, textured PEI plate, emergency button, AMS 2 Pro multi-filament system, AMD HT enclosure, and Vision Encoder Plate, priced at $3,799.
Back in May, Bambu Lab introduced the H2D 3D printer, which also works as a laser cutter and engraver. Now, they have launched a sort of upgraded version named the H2D Pro, featuring some slight enhancements. This 3D printer includes a multicolor printing system and a brand new single filament dryer in the package. As with the original model, users can buy the laser engraver and cutter module separately.
New Features and Design
To set the H2D Pro apart from its predecessor, Bambu Lab has changed the color to a darker grey instead of the light silver seen on the original. A significant upgrade is the addition of an Ethernet port and a physical kill switch to enhance Wi-Fi security. Moreover, it incorporates WPA2-enterprise Wi-Fi authentication, making it suitable for businesses and organizations that utilize 3D printers in their processes. Bambu Lab is also collaborating with clients to develop customized fleet management tools tailored to their specific workflows.
Enhanced Components
While the original H2D is equipped with a Hardened Steel nozzle, the Pro version comes with a Tungsten Carbide nozzle. Although both nozzles support the same maximum temperature, the H2D Pro is expected to offer greater durability. Additionally, the toolhead features an upgraded high-performance fan, which allows for a 3-degree increase in the suggested operating temperature.
In terms of air filtration, the H2D Pro has enhanced VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) filtration and extra particulate matter filtration to prevent odors and harmful fumes. This is in addition to the G3 filter, H12 grade HEPA filter, and granulated coconut shell activated carbon filter already found in the original H2D.
What’s Included in the Package
The package for the Pro model contains the printer, a textured PEI plate, an emergency button, the AMS 2 Pro multi-filament system, the AMD HT enclosure, and the Vision Encoder Plate.
At this time, Bambu Lab has yet to provide details on when the H2D Pro will be available, but it is priced at $3,799. It can currently be found for pre-order at the same price on the MatterHackers website, with shipping expected to begin on August 20. Interestingly, the upgraded toolhead will also soon be available for the original H2D model as well.
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Tags: 3D Printer, Bambu Lab H2D Pro, laser cutter
August 11, 2025
Next-Gen Smartphones: Cheaper and Stronger with Titanium Breakthrough
Key Takeaways
1. Engineers developed a cost-effective method for 3D-printing titanium with improved strength and ductility.
2. The new technique reduces production costs by 29%, making it more affordable for manufacturers.
3. It addresses issues of inconsistent strength in 3D-printed titanium by ensuring a uniform grain structure.
4. The technology could significantly impact industries like aerospace and healthcare, but more improvements are needed for consumer electronics.
5. A provisional patent has been submitted, and the team is seeking partners to help bring the technology to market.
A group of engineers has created a budget-friendly technique for 3D-printing titanium that boasts greater strength and ductility compared to standard alloys. This breakthrough, which the group labelled as a “full leap forward,” might make high-quality titanium easier to obtain for many different industries.
Cost Comparisons
Considering the existing price difference between 3D-printed titanium (mainly utilized in aerospace and other sectors) and machined titanium (used in consumer electronics), this new advancement still requires further enhancements before it can be incorporated into smartphones and laptops. In the short run, this new technology could significantly affect fields like aerospace and healthcare. The new alloy, as stated by the researchers, achieves a 29% decrease in production costs, allowing manufacturers to create more resilient components at a lower price.
Innovative Solutions
This groundbreaking method tackles several major issues that have limited the use of 3D-printed titanium. The design framework facilitates the production of 3D-printed titanium that has a more consistent grain structure, eliminating the column-like microstructures that cause inconsistent strength, all while being more affordable.
“We’ve managed to produce titanium alloys with not just a uniform grain structure, but also at reduced costs, and we have made it stronger and more ductile,” said Ryan Brooke, the lead author of the study.
Future Developments
The university has submitted a provisional patent for this new technique, and the team is actively seeking partners to assist in bringing the technology to market, primarily targeting the aerospace and medical device sectors.
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Tags: 3D printing, aerospace and medical devices, titanium alloys
August 8, 2025
Student Creates Viral ‘Levitating’ Sword That Flies on Command
Key Takeaways
– The drone is referred to as a ‘hovering sword’ due to its use of four rotors for flight.
– The rotors are symmetrically placed to provide stability and maneuverability.
– Control of the drone sword is achieved through hand gestures using a specially designed controller.
– The authenticity of the creation is questionable, as similar products already exist in the market.
– A notable comparison is made to a Flying Sword RC Glider available on Amazon, highlighting the concept’s lack of originality.
The video has gone viral across various social media sites, with many calling the drone a ‘floating’ sword. For something to float, it needs a force that acts passively, like magnetism. However, the truth is that this drone sword has four rotors that help it stay aloft and allow it to maneuver, which makes it more accurate to refer to it as a ‘hovering sword’.
Design and Control
In the image above, you can see the sword features four rotors positioned symmetrically — one at the front, one at the back, and one on each side. These rotors create sufficient torque to enable it to take off, hover, and move around in the air. The engineer uses a controller strapped to his left palm and forefinger, which allows him to guide the drone sword using hand ‘gestures’.
Authenticity in Question
Did he actually make this? It’s highly improbable, as there are already similar items circulating on social media. A notable example is the Flying Sword RC Glider available on Amazon, which looks strikingly similar to the one in the video. So even if he did create his version, the concept isn’t new. On a related note, we recently reported on a unique invention from a DIY engineer in China who constructed a drone capable of flying, walking, and swimming. To top it all off, this remarkable amphibious drone was made using 3D printing technology.
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Tags: DIY engineer, drone sword, Flying Sword RC Glider
August 5, 2025
DIY Engineer Creates 3D-Printed Robot That Flies, Swims, and Walks
Key Takeaways
1. A DIY engineer from China created a fully functional amphibious drone using 3D printing technology.
2. The drone’s design is inspired by turtles, featuring six legs for versatile terrain navigation and three rotors for flight and aquatic movement.
3. The rotors adjust their positions for stable flight and efficient swimming, demonstrating innovative engineering.
4. The robot gained viral attention for its demonstration as a missile launcher, raising discussions about multi-terrain drones with weapon capabilities.
5. The drone successfully navigated various terrains, showcasing its ability to waddle, fly, swim, and launch mini missiles.
In a recent showcase of the power of current 3D printing tech, a DIY engineer from China successfully created a fully functional amphibious drone using 3D printing. He designed the components of the robot himself and utilized a 3D printing service to manufacture them, which were then delivered directly to his home.
Unique Design Features
The robot’s design takes inspiration from turtles or tortoises. It features six legs—two in the front and four in the back—allowing it to traverse terrains that standard wheeled robots struggle with. Additionally, it is equipped with three rotors: two on the sides and one at the back. When it flies, these rotors position themselves vertically, enabling stable flight. For aquatic movement, the side rotors switch to a horizontal angle, while the back rotor stays vertical, allowing the two side rotors to spin and propel the robot through the water.
Viral Sensation
One aspect contributing to the robot’s viral popularity is its demonstration as a small missile launcher, showcasing its ability to fire mini missiles. This has sparked discussions about the possibility of creating a new breed of multi-terrain autonomous drones with weapon capabilities. In the demonstration video, the robot waddled through puddles, navigated both flat and uneven ground, took to the sky, swam, and launched missiles.
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Tags: 3D-printed amphibious drone, autonomous multi-terrain robot, missile launcher
August 4, 2025
Bambu Lab Launches MakerWorld: Crowdfunding for 3D Printing Projects
Key Takeaways
1. Bambu Lab offers user-friendly 3D printers, including the A1 mini and A1 combo with AMS multi-color printing.
2. The MakerWorld platform allows creators to share 3D models, participate in contests, and now features a crowdfunding section for 3D printing projects.
3. The crowdfunding feature helps support complex ideas that need resources and encourages community involvement in bringing projects to life.
4. Creators can submit proposals with visual renders, set timelines, and offer tiered rewards to backers during their campaigns.
5. Participation in the crowdfunding program is by invitation only, requiring interested creators to submit their ideas for evaluation before launching campaigns.
Bambu Lab, recognized for its user-friendly 3D printers like the A1 mini and the A1 combo—which features AMS multi-color printing and fully automated calibration—has been fostering the 3D printing community via its MakerWorld platform. This platform allows creators to share their 3D models, join contests, and more. Recently, the company has introduced a crowdfunding section on MakerWorld specifically tailored for 3D printing fans.
Community Support for Ideas
As mentioned in their blog, “We’ve noticed numerous amazing ideas that remain unbuilt due to their size, complexity, or the need for resources that individual creators don’t possess. The crowdfunding function is our solution to this issue… what if the community could directly assist these projects?”
The platform serves as a Kickstarter-like venue for the 3D printing enthusiasts. Creators can submit thorough proposals that explain their ideas, showcase them through visual renders, and set goals along with a timeline of 30, 45, or 60 days. They can also offer tiered rewards, including exclusive STL files, tutorials, DIY kits, or custom 3D prints. Once a campaign is live, they have the ability to provide updates and engage with comments from interested backers.
Encouraging Innovative Designs
Through this initiative, Bambu Lab aspires to motivate designers to craft innovative and complex projects that not only need extra resources but also demand more time and dedication to develop. There’s also a goal of uncovering what types of projects the community prefers and is willing to support.
Currently, participation in the program is by invitation only. Interested creators must email a description of their initial idea along with related visuals (refer to the blog post for additional information). The platform will evaluate submissions prior to approving and launching them on the MakerWorld Crowdfunding page for potential backers to check out.
Bambu Lab aims to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and the necessary support to bring them to life, making it easier for creators to reach their goals.
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Tags: A1 mini, Bambu Lab, MakerWorld
August 2, 2025
Snapmaker U1: Fast 3D Printer with Four Toolheads for Easy Swaps
Key Takeaways
1. The Snapmaker U1 3D printer is priced at $999, with an early-bird price of $749 and a limited-time cashback offer bringing it down to $679.
2. It features four toolheads that can switch in just five seconds, reducing downtime and material waste.
3. The printer delivers exceptional print quality with minimal vertical shifts of under 0.04 mm and includes built-in adjustments for flow delay and automatic bed leveling.
4. It has a build volume of 270 x 270 x 270 mm and can reach nozzle temperatures of up to 300°C and bed temperatures of up to 100°C.
5. Additional features include real-time monitoring with a built-in camera, a touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi connectivity, and USB support.
The Snapmaker U1 is a brand new 3D printer that comes with a suggested retail price of $999. As part of a continued crowdfunding effort, supporters can snag the device for an early-bird price of $749. Additionally, the company is providing a limited-time cashback offer for early reservations, which brings the cost down to $679. One of the most impressive aspects of the Snapmaker U1 is its four toolheads. While a single toolhead or nozzle can manage various filaments, changing colors or materials usually necessitates cutting the current filament, leading to some downtime and wasted material. On the other hand, the Snapmaker U1 claims it can switch toolheads (and thus filaments) in just five seconds.
Exceptional Print Quality
Even with multiple toolheads, the U1 is crafted to ensure minimal vertical shifts of under 0.04 mm. The quality of prints is improved by built-in adjustments for flow delay and automatic bed leveling. Instead of assigning different filaments to each toolhead, users can load the same filament types into several toolheads as backups.
Advanced Features
Similar to many contemporary 3D printers, the Snapmaker U1 has a built-in camera for real-time monitoring within its chamber, which features a build volume of 270 x 270 x 270 mm (10.6 x 10.6 x 10.6 in). The nozzle and heated bed can achieve maximum temperatures of 300°C (572°F) and 100°C (212°F), respectively. To print with carbon fiber filaments, optional add-ons and a hardened nozzle are necessary. Other useful features include a touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi connectivity, and USB support.
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Tags: 3D Printer, crowdfunding, Snapmaker U1
August 1, 2025
Airbike: The Flying Bike That Reaches Speeds of 102 km/h
Key Takeaways
1. Lightweight Design: The Airbike weighs only 30 kilograms and is made from 3D-printed carbon fiber, allowing for vertical takeoff and landing without traditional wings or rotors.
2. Advanced Technology: It features thrust-vectoring jets and a computerized flight-control system for hovering and maneuverability, with test speeds reaching up to 190 km/h (production models capped at 102 km/h).
3. Flight Specifications: The bike can fly for up to 10 minutes on standard aviation fuels and does not require a license to operate in the US, but has a maximum pilot weight limit of 95 kilograms.
4. Concerns and Limitations: Critiques include limited flight duration, lack of backup systems, unclear regulations, high price of $880,000, and potential safety issues, suggesting it may be a niche product.
5. Industry Context: Volonaut is one of many companies exploring flying bikes, but challenges like scalability and safety have hindered the development of commercially viable models so far.
Like something right out of a sci-fi flick, Volonaut has unveiled its Airbike, a flying motorbike that promises to make quick flights at low heights. This innovative model is built to take one passenger and utilizes a jet propulsion system, enabling it to take off and land vertically. Yet, despite its groundbreaking features, some worries remain.
Lightweight Design
The vehicle designed for a single rider is primarily constructed from 3D-printed parts made of carbon fiber and weighs only 30 kilograms. This lightness grants it the ability to lift off and be controlled without needing traditional wings or rotors. The Airbike is kept steady by an onboard stabilization software, which is boosted by a flight computer.
Advanced Technology
From a technical standpoint, the Airbike shows great ambition. It employs thrust-vectoring jets along with a computerized flight-control system that allows for hovering, balance, and quick maneuvers. Users can expect 360-degree visibility thanks to the lack of a cockpit enclosure, and the bike offers impressive maneuverability. Test models have reportedly hit speeds up to 190 kilometers per hour (km/h), though production models will be capped at about 102 km/h to meet ultralight aircraft guidelines.
Flight Specifications
The flying bike can stay airborne for up to ten minutes, depending on the rider’s weight, and it can run on standard aviation fuels like Jet-A1, as well as diesel, kerosene, or biodiesel. Its maximum flying time is set at 10 minutes, and interestingly, no license is needed to operate it in the US.
Nevertheless, the Airbike does have its drawbacks. With a maximum pilot weight of 95 kilograms and lacking any backup propulsion or gliding systems, both flight duration and safety margins are quite limited. Critics have also noted the absence of public patent applications, unclear regulations, and a hefty price tag of $880,000, suggesting that this device might be more of a niche item for enthusiasts rather than a widely adopted transportation solution. Furthermore, its brief flight time, potential for noise issues, and susceptibility to engine failure cast doubt on its long-term feasibility, especially as pre-orders open for deliveries in 2026, with unclear timelines.
Company Background
Volonaut is spearheaded by Tomasz Patan, an aviation entrepreneur recognized for the Jetson One personal eVTOL, but has shared little about its funding or the scale of production.
Industry Context
The list of companies that have shown off prototypes of flying bikes is quite extensive, including JetPack Aviation Speeder, Aerofex/Aeroflex Jedi Hoverbike, and A.L.I. XTurismo, among others. However, none of these efforts have resulted in commercially viable vehicles to date due to various challenges, such as lack of scalability, technical limitations, high costs, and safety issues.
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Tags: Airbike, flying motorbike, Volonaut
July 31, 2025
HyperMaker Resin 3D Printer: Ultra-Fine Details & Extra Features
Key Takeaways
1. 3D printers are mainly classified into two types: Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA).
2. The HyperMaker is a high-resolution SLA 3D printer currently funding on Kickstarter, starting at $1,500.
3. The HyperMaker can produce prints with an XY pixel size of 14 x 19 µm, ideal for intricate models.
4. It features a build volume of 211.68 x 118.37 x 200 mm and adjustable layer thickness from 0.025 to 0.2 mm.
5. Practical features include live monitoring, touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB connectivity, and an activated carbon filter.
3D printers can be classified into two main types based on how they operate. The first is Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), which heats a filament and extrudes it onto a surface to create an object layer by layer. The second type, known as Stereolithography (SLA), employs light to harden a photosensitive resin. The HyperMaker is a notable example of an SLA 3D printer that is currently part of an active Kickstarter campaign. The starting price for this system is $1,500, which includes an early bird discount. However, potential supporters should be cautious about the risks linked to crowdfunding and carefully examine the shipping policies before making a commitment.
Impressive Features of HyperMaker
One of the remarkable aspects of the HyperMaker is its capability to generate incredibly high-resolution 3D prints, featuring an XY pixel size of 14 x 19 µm. This high-resolution resin printer excels at creating small, intricate models, such as figurines. It includes a built-in 10.1-inch LCD with a resolution of 15,120 x 6,230 pixels and produces light at a wavelength of 405 nm. Additionally, it has a special system designed to reduce stray light, which helps enhance the overall quality of the prints.
Performance and Specifications
The manufacturer claims that the HyperMaker can lift the workpiece and mix the resin after each layer, although it’s not clear if this mixing is actually needed. The printer has a build volume of 211.68 x 118.37 x 200 mm (or 8.33 x 4.66 x 7.87 in) and can print at speeds between 30 to 100 mm/h, which indicates how quickly a model expands vertically along the Z-axis. Users can also adjust the layer thickness between 0.025 and 0.2 mm. Many practical features are included, such as a camera for live monitoring, a touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB connectivity, and a built-in activated carbon filter to safeguard against harmful emissions.
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Tags: HyperMaker, Kickstarter, SLA 3D Printer
July 28, 2025
Affordable 3D-Printed NAS Design Inspired by Minisforum N5
Key Takeaways
1. Affordable Alternative: The N5 Mini offers a budget-friendly substitute for expensive NAS devices, with total hardware costs around $215, significantly lower than many commercial options.
2. 3D-Printable Design: The enclosure is fully 3D-printable and can fit on a Bambulab A1 Mini printer, promoting accessibility for DIY enthusiasts.
3. User-Friendly Features: The design includes modular and open parts, magnetic faceplates, a tool-free mini-PC drawer, and easy electrical connections, enhancing ease of assembly.
4. Energy Efficiency: The N5 Mini is designed for low power consumption, contrasting with larger, energy-hungry custom NAS setups commonly used in the DIY community.
5. Free Resources: All print files and assembly instructions are available for free, with plans to share original CAD designs, encouraging community involvement and reuse of older mini-PCs.
A new DIY project has unveiled a completely 3D-printable substitute for expensive, compact NAS devices, drawing inspiration from the well-known Minisforum N5 series. Tech fan Jack Harvest shared the “N5 Mini” on Reddit; it’s a five-bay NAS enclosure measuring 175mm, crafted to work with nearly any mini-PC.
Affordable and Accessible Design
Building on the modern aesthetic and modular features of the N5, which has AMD Ryzen variants that start at $729 and go up to $1,299, the N5 Mini offers a much more affordable option. The creator claims that the complete design fits nicely on a Bambulab A1 Mini 3D printer bed (currently priced at $399 on Amazon) and can be made using PETG plastic for the main casing and TPU for the feet and motherboard offsets. His main aims included compactness, simple assembly (no print supports needed for major components), and low power consumption – presenting a clear difference from the larger, less energy-efficient Mini-ITX-based custom NAS setups often found in the DIY community.
Open and User-Friendly
This project is delightfully open: print files are available for free, and the entire build uses widely available “open” parts like standard keystone jacks, a five-bay SATA backplane, and modular cabling. A list of features includes magnetic faceplates, a tool-free mini-PC drawer, and easy electrical connections. A breakdown of costs indicates that, not including the mini-PC itself, the essential hardware totals around $215 – which is less than a third of the price of many commercial NAS devices that offer similar drive capacity.
Resources and Future Plans
Complete assembly instructions and part suggestions can be found on jackharvest.com. The build guide also suggests reusing older mini-PCs to serve as the brains of the NAS. Harvest has made the files available at no cost on Makerworld, and he plans to share the original CAD designs soon.
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Tags: DIY NAS, Minisforum, N5 Mini