Source Material…
Category: Structure, Diorama

Genre: Real World

Source: This is a mix of assorted American prototype concrete plants

The Project…
Scale: 1:87 (HO Scale)

Size: about 30" long by 6" wide

Material: Laser cut acrylic, 3D printed parts, a few kitbashed parts, photo-etched railing, mesh

Approach: Completely Custom!

Software:

Autodesk Inventor

Specialized Tools: Laser Cutter, Formlabs SLA 3D Printer, Projet MJM 3D Printer

This client has a space to fill on his project of about 30" long by 6" wide between several train tracks. A concrete plant was one of his wish list items, so we aim to please. The concept includes silo parts from a Kibri kit.

This model was valuable in showing the client various silo heights and arrangements of features. It also helped determine positioning and length of the conveyors prior to 3D printing. Subsequently, the virtual model has been used to demonstrate assembly of the real components to the assembly team.

Customizations:

The conveyors were modified from a 3D design I created for a Z-scale sugar plant (elsewhere on the site). I designed the platforms and large detailed hopper specifically for this project. All of the parts were 3D printed in-house and assembled and painted. Aftermarket photo-etched railing and ladders have been added to the hopper and platforms.

Further on in the project, there are a series of four top loaded hoppers that were modified from a Walthers kit and enhanced with a 3D printed conveyor and other parts.

Finally, as all the physical silos were pinned into place, I designed the "screw-drive" piping that transports the silo contents to the mixer section on the end of the platform.

People who helped with this project: Rali M - assembly, Jim C. 3D post-processing, lighting

Additional Reference:

The Cement mixer trucks were downloaded for scale reference.