Many makers still have older FFF 3D printers such as the Prusa i3, Ender-3, or CR-10 sitting on their shelves. At the same time, current devices print faster, more reliably, and with more materials. The Kickstarter project Liquid Blade 3D aims to make this older hardware usable again and transform it into metal etching and cutting machines.
Instead of lasers or milling spindles, the system uses an electrochemical process. The printer unit replaces the extruder with a head that directs a fine jet of saltwater electrolyte onto the metal surface. An applied current ensures that material is removed locally. The existing motion platform of the FDM printer continues to handle movement in X/Y/Z.
No smoke or sparks are produced during operation. There are no loud milling noises, and the process does not require a closed enclosure or special extraction. No aggressive chemicals are used either, which makes it easier to use in a hobby room or laboratory.
The workflow is based on typical 3D printing and electronics processes. Designs are created in vector programs such as Inkscape or in EDA tools and exported as SVG or Gerber files. Local software converts the data into G-code, which the printer executes as usual. This eliminates the need for time-consuming masking of circuit boards or manual etching baths.
Applications range from single-sided prototype PCBs to flex and IMS boards to RF shielding and antenna structures. In addition, there are jewelry, decorative metal plates, fine lettering, cosplay details, or small tools and special parts. Liquid Blade 3D thus closes a gap between purely mechanical processing and classic board or laser setups.
At launch, the add-on primarily supports widely used models such as Creality Ender-3 and CR-10, as well as the Original Prusa i3 series. The developers also mention Kobra devices from Anycubic, Bambu printers from the H2 series, Duet3D-based systems, and other models for which they are still working on adaptation. For printers not listed, there is a “Compatibility Add-on” option.
The early bird price is around 350 euros. This is close to the price of modern FDM printers, but remains well below typical laser or CNC systems. Whether the concept catches on depends on the success of the crowdfunding campaign. Technically, however, the project shows how existing 3D printing hardware can be usefully expanded with electrochemical machining.
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