3D PRINTING

Just finished another 3 day IOPP “Packaging Machinery Basics” course at Frain. It went great and we all learned a lot by seeing various machines new and old in operation on the shop floor. (Next one is in October and you can sign up now at www.IOPP.org)

One day is always devoted to how to design a packaging line. I was discussing the need to have sample packages as early in the process as possible. Traditionally this has been a bit difficult and I can remember when the best we could do was a resin casting of a bottle.

One of the attendees pointed out 3D printing technology as a tool for developing prototype packages that could be fully functional. I have not kept up with it as I should and was still thinking of it as very expensive.

Last night a blog I read pointed to this article in Popular Mechanics magazine.

I had not realized how accessible this technology had become. They mention 3D printers in the $1500 price range and several open source and free 3D drawing programs to drive them.

There are also services that will take your 3D drawing and render it in glass, plastic, stainless and other materials.

I like the idea of being able to model prototype packages and components. I also like the idea of being able to make parts for machines. Either replacement parts or prototypes to try out new ideas.

I am going to put a 3D printer on my wish list for Father’s Day