Abstract: A tool-less method for making molds, cores, and temporary tools includes the steps of providing a volumetric build system, making a CAD model of a three-dimensional object, selecting a build material including an untreated sand, selecting a binder comprising a polymeric carbohydrate, and applying, by the volumetric build system, the binder onto the build material to three dimensionally print the object, wherein the object is adapted for being a mold, a core, or a temporary tool.

Abstract: A volumetric builder machine for enhanced fabrication of sand-casting molds, cores and/or 3-dimensional shapes in printed layers within a build box. A bi-directional layer builder assembly passes back-and-forth over the build box, and with each pass deposits an even layer of loose sand while printing a water-based binder agent according to a pattern representing the mold and/or core to be formed. Heater banks carried on the traveling layer builder assembly accelerate the binder drying module process. The build box has a build plate that is incrementally lowered by a lift unit to accommodate each new sand layer. A strategic heating system preheats the sand, heats the build plate, and directs heat to the sand layer after it has been printed with binder. A ventilation system removes vapors driven from the binder. A sand filling station periodically refills the layer builder assembly. A cleaning station removes binder residue from the printheads.