We're often asked if a Gizmo DLP 3D printer can print with porcelain-like resin. The answer is 100% yes!
We recently assisted a university student with printing porcelain shells as part of his research.
He kindly shared more about his project through an interview -
About Andrew and his research.
"My name is Andrew Gall, I am a pakana from lutruwita (Tasmanian Aboriginal). Currently I am completing my Doctor of Visual Arts at Griffith University’s Queensland College of Art, Southbank, Queensland.
My research and Artworks are all to do with climate change and its effect on elements of my culture, particularly the cultural shells that go into making kanalaritja, a cultural shell necklace.
My research will utilise current and future technologies, especially in the 3D Scanning and Printing disciplines, to produce a ‘man made’ facsimile of the natural shell, so that the important cultural process of kanalaritja is able to continue after the destructive effects of climate change."
Why did you approach Gizmo 3D Printers for your project?
"I have printed hundreds of shells, and have many failed prints. During this testing process and up until recently, not one of the resins I tested came close to being an alternative to the natural shell. However, I have now found a resin that I believe will be a great alternative to the natural shell.
After a couple of failed attempts to print the shells in this new resin, I needed to find a 3D printer that could complete successful prints of the shells. I researched more and more 3D printers, sent out requests for more information, that more often than not, appeared to fall on deaf ears. This research led me to Gizmo 3D printers, who fortunately for me, responded to my emails.
After not receiving any positive responses and for the most part no response from some of the prominent names in 3D printing Australia, Gizmo 3D Printers founder Kobus du Toit response was like a refreshing rain on a hot land, we spoke on the phone and I introduced Kobus to my project, and his response was, “if you send me ‘watertight’ drawings of your shells as well as some of this new resin, I will complete a test print of them for you”. Those words are some of the best words I have heard throughout my research! So, I emailed the drawings and dropped off the resin at Gizmo
3D printers."
What was the outcome?
"Kobus, using the Gizmo 3D printer was the only company/business in Australia who took on and successfully completed a 3D print of my shells.
I tested several different resins, knowing that most would not fit the criteria I needed, such as, the 3D printed shells needed to look as close to the natural as possible, they needed to feel as close to the natural shells by weight, and they needed to act like the natural shells, by ‘act’ I mean, if you place a natural shell on a cold or hot surface it will become cold or hot, so the 3D printed shell needed to do the same. The normal resins did not do this, so I am now using Porcelite® resin from Tethon 3D.
After these shells were printed by Gizmo 3D printers. I know for sure that I have a suitable resin.
Would you recommend a Gizmo 3D printer or the company Gizmo 3D Printers to anyone thinking of buying a DLP 3D printer?
"Absolutely! I have seen and have the evidence of what the company and the 3D printers can do!
From the time I received the first email response through to receiving my printed shells working with Kobus and Gizmo 3D printers, has been seamless, smooth, enlightening and totally great!
I would highly recommend Kobus and Gizmo 3D printers to anyone."
Thanks very much for chatting with us and sharing your experience Andrew!
Have questions about the Gizmo DLP 3D Printer or printing on it with Porcelite Ceramic resin?
Click here to book a call with one of our technical advisors to discuss your resin 3D printing requirements or email info@gizmo3Dprinters.com.au.
