Protein structure for the Imaging Physics department

At the end of 2022 we received an unique order from the department of Imaging Physics at the Delft University of Technology. This department develops novel instrumentation and imaging technologies. They are driven by their scientific curiosity and problem-oriented nature in research with a strong connection to industry and to educate future leaders in the field of imaging science.

The department requested to print one of the protein structures they created as a gift for one of the co-workers in their lab. A protein structure is the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in an amino acid-chain molecule with incredibly special structure. Because it was going to be used as decoration the looks and level of detail were especially important for this project. Therefore, we chose to print this model on our Stereolithography (SLA) printer to ensure a high resolution and a smooth surface. This printer is specialised in printing complex parts with intricate geometries. A wide selection of materials, extremely high feature resolutions, and quality surface finishes are possible with the SLA technique.

The combination of our printing expertise and our modelling service is what makes this order unique. We designed a semi-transparent standard for the structure which fits perfectly in the middle, so that it can rotate smoothly to be viewed from all sides.  The model was extraordinarily complex, but with the right printing orientation, careful support removal and usage of SLA printing the structure came out great as can be seen in the image.