FLYING MACHINE
The metal printing machine that CSIRO ’ s uses to produce the titanium parts is a much faster process than other metal 3D printing technology . A significant difference in their process is that it uses an electron beam rather than a laser . And the printing isn ’ t the only part that ’ s quick . The same day Andrew heard a particular account on the radio about CSIRO and their 3D printing and titanium , he sent an email to CSIRO , which led to a phone call the same day , within a week they were working together on starting the design for parts , and just six weeks later they had their first frame built using this process .
Flying Machine also has a desktop model 3D printer , which allows them to print sample parts and test fittings , providing very handy , immediate technology for everything from testing and prototyping to production . Not only does this help save tooling costs , but it also prevents expensive mistakes through sample prints , as opposed to building with expensive titanium and then learning that it ’ s an improper fit , etc . From these test prints , the company can then move forward with full speed and confidence on the final build .
New Projects In addition to the newer titanium projects in the last year or so , Flying Machine continues to stay busy with new projects . Once again , it is the Company ’ s dedication to providing their customers with comprehensive customisation that has been helping drive Flying Machine ’ s continuous innovation . “ We ’ ve been working on new developments based on a request from a customer who wanted us to make him a ‘ road bike ’, a full derailleur geared bike , which is slightly different from what we usually do . Instead of titanium tubing , he wanted us to use carbon fibre because he wanted a very light bike ,” said Andrew .
“ Since that order has come through , we ’ ve been able to significantly reduce the size of the titanium connection parts used , because we ’ re now reinforcing those parts with the carbon fibre ,” said Andrew . This concept approach provides for a lighter bike , saving approximately 400 grams of titanium per bike , while
46 February 2015