3D printers are sometimes compared to hot glue guns, in part because of similarities between hot glue and printer filament. However, analyzing the mechanical obstacles that complicate.
In context: Several recent experiments have broadened the potential applications for 3D printing. Although most users wouldn’t consider hot glue a viable building material, it has important similarities to other compounds. Designing a workable hot glue 3D printer might solve problems that prevent using different alternatives.
3D printers are sometimes compared to hot glue guns, in part because of similarities between hot glue and printer filament. However, analyzing the mechanical obstacles that complicate printing with glue could open doors for other materials. Engineer Jón Schone recently demonstrated these issues in an experiment that, following much trial and error, converted a hot glue gun into a 3D printing extruder.
Like the filaments commonly used in 3D printing, hot glue can transition from liquid to solid without altering its composition.
