3D printers for marine, specifically sailing, actual applications.

[chris-s]

I've printed absolutely loads of parts! To name a few...

. Various switch mounts/plates
. Crockery, mug and storage container racks which can be stacked to make use of space
. Mounting brackets for things like the EDF1, the NASA LED mast top light and more
. Handheld VHF bracket
. Deck hardware standoffs
. Shaped mounting blocks to attach NASA wind instruments to mast
. Replacement sheet car sheeve halve - with a bearing
. Replacement winch handle grip
. Whisker pole end inserts to fit Allen pole ends
. Spreader mast feet
. Wheels to mount on the forward lower shrouds to prevent the genoa leach line velcro covers wrapping around the shroud when tacking

One really useful thing is to print templates and guides.

I generally use PLA, tho some parts have been done in ABS. Most parts fitted outside are painted for some UV protection, but this is the UK we are talking about. Strength wise, where a part is under load, in most cases it is compression so not really a problem and for something which is most like to have more load eg the replacement sheet sheave halve, I increase the number of walls and infill density.

The oldest parts are still in use after four years and the only parts which have failed are the shroud wheels, sometimes the sheet catches them and the twist in the vertical axis. Probably just need to make them a bit stronger.

I'm currently working on a replacement lower rudder bush. Once I have settled on the sizes then I can get a delrin one machined.



Chris

 

[GrandadPig]

Just printed a socket for the base of my mast to take a gin pole for mast lowering/raising. Printed with black ABS filament. It worked well to lower and raise once. No idea how long it will last. Mainly compressive forces.

 

[ithet]

I made new hinges and catches, the black sections in the image, from ABS for 7 port lights, the acrylic was cut on my schools laser cutter.
View attachment 144125

Do you have any more details? I have those portlights and have already had to replace one unit!

 

[Neeves]

Chris-s that is an impressive display of production. Very innovative.

Its refreshing to see that marine applications and PBO members have not given up on 3D printing. The negativity expressed earlier is tempered by actual usage by members.

I've taken note of the idea of painting, for UV protection.

I've also taken note that strength is not quite the issue mentioned earlier, particularly in compression. The arc of white plastic I have in my photo in post 13 has already been upgraded and the next iteration will have the turns of the soft shackle recessed into the piece primarily to keep the unit in one place. It will also have the edges 'rounded' off. It is solid, what you see has no voids - I'm hoping it will withstand the compression when the soft shackle tightens up. I am optimistic as the arc is supported by a solid lump of aluminium on which the arc rests.

I have also taken note that those with experience in the marine environment are also cautious off longevity. One of my ideas was that if anything works - but fails due to longevity - then the knowledge gained through usage might justify making the pieces more robust - and using the test pieces as a model for an alternative raw material and alternative method of manufacture.

My original idea was to make from a solid piece of nylon, turning it to the shape required and then cutting it into 4 pieces. I quickly gave up on that idea - hence 3D printing.

My bridle plate in post 13 was originally made in China but there is a production, remarkably, in Ukraine - and it would be nice to think when the current conflict is resolved some support could be offered to the Ukrainian manufacturer (who also make my Boomerang). They made the 2 part thread stainless LFRs - they have the skills.

For the Moderators - I make no money from their production - I'm happy my ideas are accepted I have no commercial involvement at all.

In my opening post, or posts, I mention that use of LFRs might be curtailed by their exorbitant chandler's costs. They can be sourced for at worst 25% of the retail costs of which I know, so instead of Stg40 they can be yours for Stg10. The ones I bought from China, at 25% of the costs, are even marked with the primary 'Western' manufacturer's logo and name. I appreciate manufacturers need to make a profit - but increasing the price by a factor of 4 does seem a little bit excessive.

Jonathan

 

[Ian_Rob]

It might be of interest to look at the Forged Carbon Fibre processes described in the videos produced by Easy Composites

https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&r...=25PmqM24HEk&usg=AOvVaw0vvKwkk7GXaV9IV70t8B6k

It strikes me that it is a very accessible way of producing very strong parts utilising 3D printing to make the necessary moulds.

This follow on video looks at comparative strengths:

 

[Neeves]

It might be of interest to look at the Forged Carbon Fibre processes described in the videos produced by Easy Composites

https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=video&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwid1NGl3s_6AhUJYsAKHSVVBxMQuAJ6BAgHEAU&url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25PmqM24HEk&usg=AOvVaw0vvKwkk7GXaV9IV70t8B6k

It strikes me that it is a very accessible way of producing very strong parts utilising 3D printing to make the necessary moulds.

This follow on video looks at comparative strengths:

Excellent - overcomes any doubts of strength - and is not that difficult to follow. It opens up new opportunities for use of 3D printing where the process would be rejected for components demanding strength. I'm at the stage where I am looking at optimising the design, the first generation is in this thread, Post 13, and this has already been replaced with a second generation where the dyneema is recessed into body. I'll be trying these two designs - which may lead to further changes.

In the interim I'll be mulling over what and where use of the carbon fibre might be sensible.

Thanks Ian - invaluable link.

The second link is equally valuable as it puts numbers in terms of strength on the products made in the first video and numbers on alternative compositions.

For anyone interested this is the Easy Composite website

Materials, equipment and training for advanced composites with next-day shipping and expert technical advice. - Easy Composites

I'm not sure if there is an equivalent to Easy Composites in Australia.

Jonathan