Feb.2, 2012
In this clip above, Laura Powell, 15, is playing a violin. Laura gave this premiere performance on news channel CNN because this is a special violin - it is a printed violin made from 3D technology at the University of Exeter.
The University of Exeter's new Centre for Additive Layer Manufacturing (CALM) has 3D printed two violins to impress the classic music world. How the instrument was made? The violins are made out of a high performance material "PEEK"(polyether ether ketone), which is mechanically strong and wear-resistant used in medical implants, aerospace and motorsports arena. The 3D printer they use is UK's only EOSINT P800, which can build parts at temperatures up to 385°C. EOSINT P 800 is the first laser-sintering system world-wide processing high performance polymers (including PEEK) and is produced by German supplier of laser-sintering 3D printers EOS.
This violin is one of only 3 violins in the world of this kind, and the only one that is fully strung. Laura is a student of South West Music School and in her final year at The Maynard School, both in Exeter. she has been playing the violin since she was six. She got this amazing opportunity to play this 'printed' violin and appeared on CNN as part of their 'Reveal' feature about the violin. She said, "I feel very privileged that South West Music School asked me to try out this new kind of violin. Surprisingly it sounded really nice!"
Dr Sara Flint, Commercial Manager of CALM said: "This wonderful performance perfectly illustrates the potential of 3D printing to make almost anything. Since launching CALM in September we have worked with over 50 clients to produce all kinds of items, from car parts to medical implants, but the violins are one of the most exciting things we have helped to make so far."
View the full CNN piece on the violin visit below.
About the University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is a leading UK university and is ranked 10th in the UK in The Times Good University Guide 2012 and 11th in the Guardian University Guide 2012. The University has over 17,000 students and is developing its campuses in Exeter and Cornwall with almost £350 million worth of new facilities due for completion by 2012.
About EOS
EOS was founded in 1989 and is today the world-leading manufacturer of laser-sintering systems. EOS completed its business year 2009/2010 with revenues of 64 million Euros. The company employs 300 people worldwide, 250 of them in Krailling near Munich, Germany.
Source: Exeter & swms.org.uk & CNN
Posted in 3D Printing Applications
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Stunning! I would love a 3D printer printed by a 3D printer. They could take over the world.