Additive manufacturing
additive manufacturing
Additive Manufacturing or 3D printing, is a process where components, products, or parts are built up layer by layer by the selective deposition of materials. The list of materials is long – from lots of different plastic materials through to an array of widely used metal alloys. The additive manufacturing process is in complete contrast to the subtractive or deforming processes which are still predominantly used in manufacturing today.
Additive manufacturing is focusing on turnkey components of additive manufactured (also named 3D printed) parts. Our core competences are in the field of surface treatment, heat treatment and hot isostatic pressing, a technology also known as HIP.
Post processing of additive manufactured parts is of high importance. Parts coming out of the printer are not yet finished. Printed parts are seen as a slug with a need for surface treatment, heat treatment as well as hot isostatic pressing. Post processing is an essential part of the entire additive manufacturing chain.
Additive manufacturing can offer a wide technology portfolio and covers more than 84 different processes.
Besides our core competencies we can also deliver turnkey components made by additive manufacturing. We have access to several printers and equipment provided by the strong support of our partner companies. With this in mind we support our customers from re-design, engineering, printing (metal & plastic), machining, heat- and surface treatment.
a disruptive technology on its way to industialization
The difference between additive and the conventional methods of production is unbelievable. The additive manufacturing process can realize geometrically complex objects that would not be feasible with conventional methods. A big advantage is the freedom of form in the design as well as a production without the need of toolings.
But every process – also the additive manufacturing – has its challenges. There are many open questions.
Post Processing of additive manufactured parts is one of the most discussed challenges at the moment. Surface treatment, roughness reduction, stress relieve, hot isostatic pressing and many more are challenged to find the right solutions for additive parts.
We can help you by finding answers as post processing is our core competence. Please have a look at our technology portfolio.
the process
- Define CAD / CAM
- Optimize: Part Orientation, Layer Thickness, Support Design, Production Parameter
- Define Production Documents
- 3D printer for serial production
- Stress relieve process
- Removing parts from the build plate
- HIPping process
- CNC machining process
- Surface treatments
- Packaging and logistics
process locations
Any questions? Contact us directly or select a process location near you.