Consumer 3D printers have become common in creating rigid objects, but they can be slow and limited in material versatility. Enter the Saltgator, a desktop injection molding machine designed to produce soft and flexible items quickly, with a claimed production time of about 10 minutes.
Currently featured in a Kickstarter campaign, the Saltgator was developed by a startup based in Hong Kong and Texas, originally envisioned by a group of anglers and engineers aiming to make custom fishing lures at home. The device resembles a food processor and consists of a control base and a tall removable injection chamber.
The Saltgator allows users to utilize molds that can be either purchased, 3D-printed from its library, or crafted from their own designs. The machine is compatible with commonly used materials like PLA, PETG, and ABS, able to withstand temperatures between 176 ºF and 410 ºF (80 ºC to 210 ºC) without melting the molds.
To use the Saltgator, a liquid elastomer mixture is poured into the injection chamber. Saltgator provides a system-specific SoftGel material, but the device also supports various other substances, including soft PVC and silicone.
After the liquid is heated and mixed, the mixture is injected into the mold through a plunger mechanism. Following a quick three-minute curing time, users can remove their finished products. The entire process can be completed in 10 to 15 minutes, and any errors can be recycled into future creations.
If successful, backers can obtain a Saltgator for a pledge of $249, with a planned retail price of $399. More information can be found on its Kickstarter page and on the Saltgator website.