Customized 3D Concrete Stamp Helps You Make Your Mark
Have you ever noticed an old concrete building with the construction date etched or stamped on one of the foundational blocks? Or, did you and the kids write your names in the wet concrete at your family’s first home to mark the occasion?
These are some fun and effective ways of personalizing projects or maintaining historical records for future generations. And while the desire to do this still exists, the technology used to make it happen has changed immensely.
In the thick of that progress is the world of additive manufacturing. The tools, materials, and processes used to 3D print solutions extend into creating stamps or other markers to impress information – dates, names, logos, images – into concrete.
Recent concrete stamp project
We recently completed a project that required us to design and 3D print a stamp capable of personalizing a concrete stone at Macklin Manor in Youngstown, Ohio. We enjoyed the project and are excited to have the capability to make small or large personalized concrete stamps for our clients’ residential and commercial projects.
So, how did we do it? How can we use our additive manufacturing technology to help you personalize or preserve the history of your buildings, projects, or events?
How the process works
Here’s a quick rundown of the process.
1. Share your idea with us in a vector file. Every great project starts with an idea. Do your best to communicate your vision with us by drawing it in a vector graphics file. You can use a software program like Adobe Illustrator or a free program like Inkscape to do this. When you have what you like, save it as a Scalable Vector Graphic (.SVG) file, which we can most likely use with our CAD programs. Note: Your design must be mirrored so that the stamp itself is the reverse of what will appear on a stamped surface.
2. We’ll convert the vector design into a 3D model. We will use 3D modeling software to convert your two-dimensional .SVG file from a curve to a mesh. Then, we’ll bring it to life by turning it into a three-dimensional shape.
3. We’ll add a backing plate. In the 3D modeling software, we’ll add a rectangular mesh and make it three-dimensional. This backing plate will make the final print sturdy.
4. We’ll export the file as an .STL file and set it up to print. Now, we’re getting down to business. We’ll get things set up to start printing your stamp. We’ll use flexible resin with a layer height of 100 microns and 3D print your stamp directly on the build platform.
5. Start the presses. It’s go time. Depending on the size of your stamp, it will take half a day or more to print your stamp.
6. Print a stamp handle. You may or may not want us to print a stamp handle to fit the corresponding stamp.
7. Start stamping. Now’s the time you’ve been waiting for. You can use your new concrete stamp for whatever you want. You’ll be able to make your mark on all kinds of business or personal projects. Next time you need a custom stamp for your concrete project, we’re ready to help. Get in touch with us for a free quote or to talk about your 3D printing needs.
Sources
How to 3D print custom stamps in 7 easy steps. Formlabs. (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://formlabs.com/blog/3d-print-custom-stamps/.