Hidden away in the BFI National Archive, a 3D printer works tirelessly and quietly to help save film history. Since it was acquired nearly three years ago, the Formlabs Form 3L has allowed the Archive Technology team to reproduce long-obsolete components that are essential for historic film and projection equipment. These include items such as film cores and intricate guides. Thanks to its large print volume, the Form 3L is particularly well suited for recreating the delicate parts of old film reels.
But print volume is not the only factor. Precision and surface quality are equally crucial for restoring antique film. The LFS (Low Force Stereolithography) technology from Formlabs makes this possible as well.
Some of the BFI’s applications: an antique, worn film reel and its 3D-printed replica (top); prototypes of a screw (bottom)
How the Restoration Works
The workflow begins with an EinScan Pro HD 3D scanner, which digitizes the existing parts. The model is then refined in SolidWorks and finally printed in resin. After printing, the parts go through careful post-processing with the Form Cure L to ensure stable mechanical properties. This step is especially important for components in old equipment that are exposed to mechanical stress or sensitive to temperature.
Replication is not the only option. The Form 3L also serves as a modern prototyping tool. For example, resin prototypes were first created for a 2-inch video cleaner component, which then served as the basis for a durable metal version.
More Than Just Restoring Old Components
Despite all our progress, we are losing more and more technology that can no longer be maintained because of aging equipment or missing spare parts. 3D printing offers a gentle solution, allowing old components to be scanned with ease and completed as digital models. For example, ÖBB uses 3D scanning and printing to produce spare parts for aging technology. Even centuries-old crafts can benefit from 3D printing technologies, which make it possible to repair traditional tools without difficulty, as demonstrated by the Harris Tweed looms.
In this way, the BFI uniquely combines preservation and progress. Old technologies remain not just as historical artifacts but as functional components of cinematic equipment, keeping them accessible for future generations. For more information, click HERE.
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*All Image Credits: BFI