Hi guys, most of you know I`ve built a 3D printer recently and I`m getting some real nice prints off it. I`ve been thinking for a while that a printed engine would be amazing, but maybe not possible.
The finish of a 3D printed item is no good, so a wobbler type engine just wouldn`t work because of the required lapped surface. I was thinking however that the rocker type engine would be possible as no lapped surfaces are required and with a bit of sanding, a decent enough fitting piston could be printed to create "enough" of a seal!
Don`t get me wrong, I`m not looking for a perfect running steam engine, just something that does move under pressure.
I`ve attached the original plans for the rocker engine here:
http://www.raynerd.co.uk/images/RockingSteamEngine.pdf...and of course there are loads of build logs of this engine on here and the net.
I`m not great with cab but I am getting better with google sketchup so not only am I hoping people can chip in here, but if anyone thinks this might be an interesting project and is interested in doing some drawing, please get in touch. When doing the drawings, we need to consider how it will be printed, i.e no bridges, steep overhangs etc.
I hope I`m not overlooking something that makes this a total none-goer! I`m sure someone will tell me if I am...
Look forward to some replies!
Chris