Development of a Prototype Embedded 3D Printer with Dual Ink-Gel Extrusion Capability
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7166/36-4-3172Abstract
3D printing has advanced significantly, enabling new applications such as embedded 3D printing for materials that solidify slowly. This method prints liquid materials into a support gel that holds their shape while curing. This project developed the dual ink-gel extruder (DIGEX) to address the limitations in the print volume seen in previous projects and to enable the simultaneous extrusion of material and support gel. Various sub-assemblies and deposition techniques were tested to optimise performance. While DIGEX successfully demonstrated the concept, difficulties remain in scaling for large-format printing, requiring further refinement in hardware, software, and process configurations.
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Published
2025-12-12
How to Cite
Van Driel, A., & Govender, R. (2025). Development of a Prototype Embedded 3D Printer with Dual Ink-Gel Extrusion Capability. The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 36(4), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.7166/36-4-3172
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