‘3-D Painting’ Sprays Metal To Repair Or Rebuild Machines [Video]

GE is showing off a new machine that sprays high-velocity metal powders at broken machines, repairing damage in a few minutes without having to weld replacement pieces. The technique, which they’re calling “cold spraying,” or “3-D painting,” (you know, like “printing”) could also be used to make entirely new parts. Got a machine that’s deteriorating from wear and tear? Then, great, maybe you could use this to keep it functioning longer.

Probably not as potentially revolutionary as regular ol’ 3-D printing, but a neat trick, nonetheless.