3D printing for artistic glass manufacturing

Purpose and goal

The project studied a new working method for glass casting to enable new designs, shortened lead times and strengthened glass surface. The approach combines traditional craftsmanship of glass casting with new knowledge of additive manufacturing and active surfaces. The project focused on three main tracks: 1. Glass casting in 3D-printed sand casts 2. Development of surface coatings for smoother glass surfaces 3. Development of an activator to strengthen the glass surface The project prepared a basis for implementing the working method at Målerås Glasbruk and Orrefors Kosta Boda.

Expected results and effects

The project produced a basis for an implementation of the working method at Målerås Glasbruk and Orrefors Kosta Boda. It was shown that casting of glass in 3D-printed sand casts is feasible and that surface coatings can be used to increase the quality of the glass surface. The working method creates opportunities for new designs and reduces the need for manual finishing. A cost analysis has been carried out and work environment aspects as well as sustainability issues have been addressed. Orrefors Kosta Boda has started using the technology in some initial applications.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was divided into three stages. The first stage collected information about surface coatings to decide which types and application methods to be tested. Possible designs for 3D-printed sand casts were evaluated and a few were chosen to be used in the project. In stage two, test objects were cast according to the test matrix developed in stage 1. Sustainability and work environment aspects were also studied during the stage. Finally, the developed test objects were evaluated in stage 3 and a decision basis for a future implementation was produced.