This 3D printer works with molten metal

The machine melts aluminum and uses the molten droplets to create 3D shapes.

The Vader machine works like an inkjet printer

but for molten metal

A strand of aluminum is fed into a heat element

It’s melted at 750 degrees Celsius and passes into a ceramic tube

A magnetic coil surrounds the tube and receives electrical pulses

This causes pressure within the tube

And metal droplets are ejected at a thousand times per second

The droplets fall onto a heated plate that moves around to create a 3D shape

Other metal printers exist, but the Vader is much cheaper to use

The printer could be used for making things like automotive parts

or custom knee and hip replacements