Apparatus and process for removing support structure from a 3D printed part
US9828679B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 23, 2016 |
| Grant date | Nov 28, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 23, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P10/25
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An apparatus and a process for removing a support structure from a 3D printed part, where the 3D printed part along with the support structure is placed in an acid solution and the part is surrounded by an induction heater. The acid solution is recirculated through the acid tank to prevent the acid solution from heating up too much. Small surfaces of the part are heated up by the induction heater before larger pieces are heated so that the acid will remove the smaller pieces first. After enough time, all of the support structure is removed by the acid and the heater to leave the finished 3D printed part with the support structure removed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.