3D Printed Mill Model Supports Hands-On Training

Wilmar Sugar Australia has developed a 3D printed model of a crushing mill to support hands-on training for trades and operational employees working across its sugar factories.

The model is the first in a planned series designed to help workers better understand equipment components and key operational settings used within the milling process.

Wilmar’s design team began by creating a generic 3D model of a crushing mill using AutoCAD, ensuring it included all the necessary elements for training while remaining suitable for 3D printing.

A Townsville-based 3D printing company was then engaged to produce the final model.

The completed training tool features 75 individual parts connected using rare earth magnets, allowing it to be easily taken apart and reassembled. Despite being designed for repeated use in training environments, the model is also robust enough to withstand long-term handling.

The mill was printed using Polylactic Acid Plus, a plant-based material made from renewable resources including sugarcane.

Wilmar said the model is intended to improve practical learning by giving employees a clear, hands-on understanding of how mill components work together.

Following the success of the project, the company is now considering producing additional 3D printed models of other critical equipment used in sugar processing, including shredders and mud filters.

CAPTION: Design Draftsperson Paris Ogden and Cadet Draftsperson Grace Bach reassembling the printed mill at Pioneer Mill. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited

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