Desktop Metal Rolling

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The open source 3D printed Cordless drill will be a showcase for closed loop material cycles - attained via distributed, small-scale production. The plastic material used to build the drill will come from the waste stream. At the end of its useful life, all amterials used can be recycled, down to the 3D printed electrical plugs.

Phase 2 of local material loops on the home scale involves steel recycling via an induction furnace, which can melt metal and cast it to billet form. Billets can then be rolled to virgin steel using a desktop metal roller. The size of the machine will be comparable to a household appliance. Metal that can be derived includes plastic shredder blades and shafts, steel for 3D printer frames, other steel parts such as drill chucks, and other parts such as electrical plug prongs.