This project was an exploration into the potential for 3D printed stainless steel. We wanted to see how competitive printed steel compared to functional tools made from traditional steel processes. Further to this, we wanted to explore any possible advantages that could be achieved when employing additive manufacturing over traditional methods. To do this we designed Hike - a lightweight hatchet for hiking, camping and other out door activities.

 

All non-critical volume was removed, leaving only a delicate outline of the stainless steel tool. The remaining material was sculpted as a V-section, rather than a flat solid section, to remove further volume. In order to retain the hatchets structural strength, material was only removed from low-stress, low-impact areas.

 

Functional areas of the hatchet include an axe for cutting and splitting wood, a hammer for tent pegs and an opener for refreshments. These areas were polished and sharpened, while the body remained untouched to preserve the material grain - a by-product, created by steps of the steel printing process. This contrast highlights the material quality in the finished product, while retaining a distinct signature of additive manufacturing.