TECHNOLOGY AR ZONE
3D PRINTING WITH METAL
How 3D printers can materialise sturdy rocket parts and more in metal
WORDS AILSA HARVEY
Complex metal designs can be produced more costeffectively when 3D printed
© Getty / Illustration by Adrian Mann
Since the first 3D printers appeared in the 1980s, their applications have continued to grow. Initially, they were used mainly for speedy prototyping and their filaments were limited to printing plastics. This flexible material is the simplest option for 3D printing as it can be easily melted and shaped. At room temperature, most metals are solid and are difficult to manipulate. However, today’s technology allows us to 3D print in metal.