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3D printed armor?

Discussion in 'Armor' started by beavis87, Jul 24, 2020.

  1. Jul 24, 2020 at 2:22 PM
    #1
    beavis87

    beavis87 [OP] Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 24, 2015
    Member:
    #155964
    Messages:
    391
    Gender:
    Male
    El Paso
    Vehicle:
    '10 Silver TRD OR
    Now that 3D printed metal and now even composite materials like Markforged Onyx, "Markforged is the first company to offer 3D printed continuous fibers, enabling composite parts robust enough to replace machined metal."

    They say their X7 printer can print parts that are, "Stronger than 6061 Aluminum and 40% lighter". They even claim its, "50x Faster, 20x Cheaper" which i believe are the advantages of having any 3D printer onsite compared to traditional methods of manufacturing a new part out of aluminum.

    They're even working on printing Ti-6Al-4V (titanium). I realize that acquiring the equipment to be able to 3D print metals and composites for Tacoma armor would cost a lot but has anyone tried or trying to? When can we see a 3D printed metal or composite armor kit for our trucks, some that is that is stronger and lighter than aluminum? The process seems scalable enough for small producers to create custom pieces pretty quickly. Ive seen it done on Pappadakis Racing's YT channel for their Supra drift car. https://youtu.be/ZPYBTWaKYxw
    Since no aftermarket exists yet, they have 3D printed some of the engine components for their needs (1000HP drift car).

    For people just looking to replace the standard bumpers with something that gives more clearance without adding weight, this could be a game changer. For people who dont regularly smash their rock sliders into boulders every weekend or who have a lot of weight to carry (overlanders) and don't need crawler level of protection (and weight) most of the time so that their RV/tool&parts truck/toy hauler isn't overloaded with thick steel armor not doing anything except 1% of the time.

    Is anyone looking for testers? When is group buy?
     

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