Additive manufacturing has often demonstrated its capabilities in the manufacture of prostheses of all kinds, and has played a big part in helping people in need. With the devastating aftermath of the war in Ukraine, where an estimated 10,000 people have suffered amputations and over 400,000 existing amputees can no longer access care, Canadian non-profit organization Victoria Hand Project (VHP) has found a way to provide high-performance prosthetic limbs, made using 3D printing, to those in need. Working with BASF Forward AM and UltiMaker, VHP has used 3D printing to create customizable and affordable prosthetic hands to help people who have suffered the loss of a limb regain their independence. VHP’s success in Ukraine has been so significant that the organization has launched a campaign called “Hands for Ukraine” to raise money to continue manufacturing prosthetics for people in need in the country.
One of the key elements of this project is the use of BASF Forward AM’s Ultrafuse PLA PRO1 material, which offers outstanding print quality and enables the production of precise and detailed components. This not only improved the aesthetics of the prostheses, but also contributed to their functionality. The material has been carefully optimized for quality, speed, strength and reliability, exceeding performance levels achieved with conventional filaments.
