Most interesting new tech?

[astroracer]

Interesting that we've all zeroed in on the same tech. I had 3D printing in mind when I wrote the post.

Mark, your model wheels have really got me thinking. I know that it's possible to print in metal, but I wonder if magnesium alloys are yet available? Anyone who could print full-scale Halibrand sunburst wheels would have Cobra kit builders lining up with their wallets out. Cast originals are like dragons' teeth (and very pricey), while the various replicas available are all not right in one way or another.

Ken

Ken,
3D printing is nowhere near as strong as a cast or billet machined part. There is no way a 3D printed wheel would live under even normal street driving rigors.
Think of the printed part like one of those layered biscuits your wife makes for dinner. The layers are not really attached to each other. Think how that would come apart under any sort of stress or side load. 3D printing is an excellant tool for making proto-type models and checking designs and making model parts such as I am doing but it will not revolutionize the auto parts industry.
Even the parts I am doing need to be resin cast to make them affordable. Look at the clear tires I modeled, it cost me 12 dollars to have each of those parts printed. The 3D printing is cool but there are many limitations.
Mark