Senvol Launches Searchable Additive Manufacturing Database

As additive manufacturing (AM) continues to grow, the amount of information and documentation available also grows. This can make finding which AM system or material is best for your particular needs to be something of a challenge. With so many trending AM stories, even the Internet has become of limited help, unless you bear down on your Google search parameters.

Senvol, a consulting firm specializing in cost analyses, may have offered an easy way to cut through all the AM clutter with the launch of its 3D printing database. Currently, the database offers an option for searching for specific materials, and an option of searching for AM systems.

“We’re very excited by the Senvol Database because it’s an extremely useful tool for everyone in the additive manufacturing industry,” said Zach Simkin, president of Senvol. “There has been a growing need for a tool like this and we’re pleased to provide the industry with a solution.”

Users can search the system for free, but Senvol does require you create an account. Fear not, however, signing up only takes a second. Users are simply asked to provide some basic details, and choose a password before they are back to searching the database.

Searching by machine opens up a fillable form asking what sort of materials, process, build envelope, and so on that you require. The system then spits out a list of AM systems that fit your requirements, sorted by manufacturer. Each entry has additional information that can be accessed by clicking on the specific entry.

As a test, I searched for an SLA system (correctly identified as vat polymerization) with a minimum build envelope of 6 inches. Out of the returns I randomly picked 3D Systems’ ProX 950. The additional information offered includes a technical summary of the system, known materials compatible with the system, and additional information concerning size, energy requirements, etc.

The material search page is much more detailed than the systems page. Users can search for materials by type, a list of mechanical properties, hardness, thermal properties, physical properties and certifications. Every field is optional but, as with any database, the more information you put in, the better results you’ll receive.

Below you’ll find a short video about 3D printing that includes some conversations with Senvol personnel.

Source: Senvol