The Need
The prohibitive cost of consumer-grade 3D metal printers (e.g. AOMetal’s desktop device starting at $59,000 USD), places them far beyond the reach of most hobbyists, educators, and researchers. Thus, there is a significant need for an affordable, energy-efficient solution that enables metal 3D printing on existing consumer-grade 3D printers, dramatically lowering the barrier to entry for small-scale innovation and experimentation.

The Technology
The induction-based hot end can be used to retrofit 3D plastic printers for affordable metal printing. This technology operates by generating an oscillating electromagnetic field through an induction coil, heating a steel nozzle encased in a ceramic tube. A graphite tube inside the steel nozzle prevents molten metal from welding to it. This hot end can be easily integrated with existing printers without firmware modifications, resulting in a tremendously cost-effective solution.

Benefits/Advantages
• Affordability: Enables cost-effective metal 3D printing at home.
• Energy Efficiency: Operates with low power consumption.
• Compatibility: Easily mounts to consumer-grade 3D printers.
• High Temperature: Achieves temperatures suitable for metal printing.

Provisional patent application filed