3D Print Yorkshire was recently given the task of printing a 3d model steam engine. These were a really interesting set of prints created for James, a skilled model maker.

James has been using a photo reference to CAD model up the external ‘bodywork’ of a Fowlers Patriot Class 4-6-0 Express Engine.

He supplied us with the STL files and we were able to print some large models with great quality surfaces. James has used FDM printing before but wasn’t happy with the surface quality. He needed to do a lot of filling and sanding to get what he wanted.

Using SLA technology he was able to do away with lengthy finishing. A simple primer base coat was all that was required.

As you can see from the featured image James has done a fantastic job of painting the printed shell and compares favorably to the original engine in the photograph.