Asia Fine Art (AFA) is in the business of making big things - really big things. As one of the most highly regarded bronze foundries in the world, many of AFA's creations take on epic proportions. Take for instance the incredible statue pictured to the right that towers above its surroundings.

 

Each of AFA's projects begins with a small-scale original supplied by their client. This version must then by accurately enlarged to create a full-size foundation for the bronze casting process. AFA had been creating these enlargements either by hand using time consuming traditional methods or by subcontracting the work out, but things changed once they got their hands on FROG3D.

 

With FROG3D, AFA now has an automated, in-house enlargement solution that goes far beyond traditional processes. They can scan an original sculpture to create a 3D file, edit the file, prepare it for production and then mill the final version out of foam with individual pieces being assembled to create a perfect enlargement. This process takes productivity and efficiency to new levels, but it also lets AFA give their clients the kind of detail and accuracy they demand - no matter how big the project.

 

 

Whether it's being used to create precast concrete molds or as a perfect replacement for concrete and wood, coated foam is fast becoming the material of choice for architectural features. Lightweight and durable, foam provides benefits that traditional materials don't, and it can be used to create a full range of architectural features and molds.

 

Combining hot wire cutting with 3D laser scanning, 3D routing and various finishing capabilities, Streamline's FROG3D system is the next level of innovation in architectural foam and precast concrete mold production. Hot wire cutting technology is an integral component of the FROG3D system, but it's the addition of the scanning, routing and finishing capabilities that introduces a new realm of creative possibilities.

 

Thanks to the integration of these technologies, FROG3D makes it possible to take architectural features from concept to creation with an automated solution. Users can produce creative and decorative architectural features and molds without the labor of traditional hand carving processes, and without thte creative limitations of standalone hot wire cutting equipment. Perfect replicas of existing pieces and models using either foam or concrete are possible, including accurate historical reproductions. Scanning and routing capabilities also allow for the creation of decorative wall panels, concrete reliefs, fireplace mantels, concrete sculptures and much more.

 

Click here to read the full 'Creating Concrete Molds and Architectural Features Using Foam' article.

 

The launch of Streamline's FROGCoat foam coating machine rounds out the capabilities of the FROG3D foam carving system. Clients now have an automated solution for creating detailed architectural features without the hassles and inaccuracies of traditional methods and materials.

 

Coating foam pieces with durable finishes creates a lightweight, cost efficient and easy to install replacement for traditional concrete or wood materials. FROGCoat provides an automated solution for coating architectural foam trim, moldings and other features. Materials are simply fed through the machine on a conveyor system while coating material is evenly and accurately applied, creating consistent end products. Clients can now create installation-ready architectural features with the same detail and craftsmanship of traditional processes, but without the time and labor.

 

Read more about Streamline's new FROGCoat equipment here.

 

Are you a current Streamline customer who has a completed project you would like profiled in Foam Cutting Quarterly? Send an email to info@3dcutting.com and we'll put your work front and center.