Using the new Stratasys F120 3D printer and SOLIDWORKS to build end-use products

Technology is constantly evolving; every day there are new and innovative products on the market. Recently, there has been a rise in popularity of bladeless products, like fans and hairdryers. With the extreme heat this summer, we decided to design and print a desk fan. The benefit of having a fan with no blades allows for a smooth and quiet air flow unlike traditional fans. The Stratasys F120 3D printer with the help of SOLIDWORKS has made it possible for new and innovative ideas to become a reality. 

3D printed bladeless fan

With only a handful of components and a 3D printer, it was possible to create a custom bladeless fan which utilizes principles of low and high air pressure zones to create an even and constant flow of air through the fan. The following image depicts the high- and low-pressure areas as air travels through the fan slit opening.

High-low pressure areas

Additive Manufacturing brings ideas to life

The fan component is hidden in the bottom half of the chassis. This fan was modelled in SOLIDWORKS using similar design features like the intake slits on the bottom half of the fan. The part was then printed on the F120 in a matter of hours. All support material is easily dissolvable which is unique to Stratasys 3D printers. Once all components were printed, a PC chassis fan was installed and powered through a DC adaptor, with variable speed control using a potentiometer.

3D printed bladeless fan

Stratasys F120 Printer is fast, accurate and easy to use

The Stratasys F120 3D printer is the smallest of the F123 series printers, however, it has all the features and benefits of larger industrial-grade 3D printers. The F120 is fast, accurate and user friendly. It is designed for ease of use, so you can maximize your productivity. The printer uses ABS-M30 and ASA material. ABS-M30 is a material ideal for conceptual modelling, functional prototyping, manufacturing tools and production parts. ASA is ideal for outdoor-use production parts due to the strength, colour choice and UV resistance. This fan was printed using ASA material and took about 12 hours.