Alternatives for prototyping of Al-Li parts.. How does 3d-printing work for you? 1

[enomoti]

I am searching for a proper new way to produce metal prototypes (made of light alloys, e.g. Al-Li)
currently being produced using machining manufacturing or metal injection molds.

Any experiences with 3D printing?
Other ideas that could improve the current prototyping?

 

[rb1957]

do you mean 3D print Al-Li ?

another day in paradise, or is paradise one day closer ?

 

[KENAT]

It's surprising what complex shaped parts can be machined for reasonable cost using CAM & multiaxis machines etc.

Of course, you have be be careful because the material properties may not match castings or sintered parts but worth thinking about.

Got an email about magnesium rapid prototyping just the other day

http://www.protolabs.com/magnesium-...ail&utm_source=pl&utm_content=thixo0515-thixo

Posting guidelines faq731-376

http://eng-tips.com/market.cfm?

(probably not aimed specifically at you)
What is Engineering anyway: faq1088-1484​