3D printing case fans

[CastleCrusher]

So, as the title suggests, I've been thinking about 3D printing some case fans. I haven't seen much of this being done with bigger more typical 120 mm or 140 mm fans but I saw a video where someone printed the fan itself for a small 12 volt one and it was much quieter than the original one and it even seemed to perform better. So if I were to design and print the fan and it's frame and install the motor and everything else that's necessary, in theory I'd have a fan like any other? Thanks

[SolarNova]

The blades wont be strong enough.

[Faisal A]

@SolarNova They should be. 3d printed parts arnt that weak

[Blue4130]

For something spinning @ 800 to 3000 rpm, I'd really go with sla resin prints. Or just go with noctua. Fluid dynamics is complex, noctua engineers are probably better at it than the average computer user

[LogicalDrm]

The quietness and performance is so subjective. I don't have any doubts that it couldn't be done, or that result wouldn't work. But to what original you are comparing make difference. Just think of all the little things. Amount of blades, curving and general shape of blades, smaller details on blades AND frame. If original is generic 5 blade thing from 15 years ago, sure you can get better results. But against premium fans with years of R&D behind them, doubt it.

[nsqvk]

I don't think its worth the time and effort considering that you can get a decent case fan for $5