3D Printed Traction Models are in the House

Model by Volkmar Maier and Paul Mayer. Courtesy of
Interurban Railways

Check out the 3D-printed Fort Wayne-Lima interurban combine built by Paul Mayer over at Volkmar Maier's Interurban Railways blog. Holy smokes!

What's remarkable here is the combination of the new technique--3D printing--with good old fashioned craftsmanship. Paul did a remarkable job with the finish on this model, which Volkmar designed for 3D printing.

Doubters, beware: 3D printing is working its way into model railroading as a craftsman technique, particularly for low-demand and esoteric subjects. Small wonder, then, that traction modelers and the small community of micro-manufacturers that serve up traction stuff have ventured into the 3D printing game. For example, Imperial Hobby Productions and Island Model Works both offer 3D printed traction bodies and components, and/or use 3D printing techniques for manufacturing and tooling.

Exciting stuff!