Hello, I am looking to 3D print molds for thermoforming Kydex (we currently have wooden molds which have a number of shortcomings). I am planning on using PC for the purpose and coating it in a high temperature epoxy to insulate the molds as they have a lower glass transition temperature than the temperature the Kydex is formed at. I have molds and am waiting for epoxy at the moment and will upby AirFlow - Casting and Moldmaking Working Group
I will add, I don't know how much force the part is going to take. If it is an area that will require something of high strength, than finding a part that was forged would be better, if it doesn't receive a lot of force like a manifold than casting is a solid way to manufacture it.by AirFlow - Casting and Moldmaking Working Group
I'm interested in this as well, I really like the look of the linear rails, 3KU v2017 has an IMO really pretty take on how to stiffen up a printer using linear rails for it's support.by AirFlow - Delta Machines
You can 3d print a mold using a filament called polycast and probably others, which prints like PLA but burns off better. You cannot scan a part and expect it to come out properly though, for one thing your print will shrink as the plastic cools, secondly the cast metal you make will shrink as the metal cools. You can design the part and design it with the shrinkage in mind, I know Solidworks cby AirFlow - Casting and Moldmaking Working Group