Additively produced molds for glass production

Purpose and goal

The project has shown promising results for the use of 3D-printed sand moulds for use in glass industry. Important parameters have been identified to customize 3D-printed sand moulds and surface coatings to glass materials. The first look at the use of activators to strengthen the glass surface indicates that more thorough studies are necessary.

Expected results and effects

The project has resulted in identification of parameters important for future development and adaptation of 3D-printed sand moulds with glass materials. The results are expected to lay the foundation for a larger bridging project focusing on taking the new technology into glass production.

Planned approach and implementation

The planning of the pre-study worked well where an initial literature study increased the knowledge base and the subsequent experimental work identified important parameters to take into account when adapting a method originally developed for the metal industry to application in the artistic glass industry.