Technology | Applications

Additive manufacturing with thinkTEC 3D

Layer by layer to success

The revolutionary manufacturing technology

Additive manufacturing, also known colloquially as 3D printing, is the generic term that encompasses a variety of different 3D printing processes. What all processes have in common is the component structure in layers.

Due to the rapid development of this manufacturing technology, additive manufacturing is now suitable for the production of end-products.

Compared to known manufacturing processes, new design freedoms are opening up, which can be used, for example, in optimisation in terms of lightweight construction, functional integration or variant production.

Advantages at a glance

Variant manufacturing

Is this component also available in a different size? Variant production is no longer a problem thanks to additive manufacturing. Where previously new tools had to be created or programs changed, all that is needed today is an adjustment to the 3D CAD model.

Function integration

All components fulfil a function. Thanks to additive manufacturing, many functions can be integrated directly into the component. For example, fluid channels, latching functions, or various motion sequences can be implemented for no additional cost.

Consolidation of assemblies

Complex plants consist of many components – additive manufacturing makes it possible to combine several components into one part. This reduces costs along the entire process chain.

Unlimited freedom of form & complex structures

Undercuts, curve bores, free-form surfaces.

Additive manufacturing opens up completely new design possibilities. This allows products to be optimally designed in terms of design and functionality.

Speed due to tool-less production

Series production can start immediately. There is no need for time-consuming mould production and mould testing, thus product launch times are significantly reduced.

The production plants

State-of-the-art manufacturing facilities

Whether it is an individual one-off item or profitable series production – thanks to state-of-the-art production facilities and different manufacturing processes, we are able to respond to the needs of our customers.

Filigree components with highly complex structures, precision-fit moulds or intelligent design and functional principles – We are the right partner for you.

We have specialised in FFF, INKJET and MULTI-JET processes and are thus prepared for many industries and areas of application.

HP Jet Fusion 5210 & 4210

The MJF (Multi Jet Fusion) process is a powder-based technology. With its high efficiency and good material properties, MJF technology is an economical and fast alternative to injection moulded parts. Thanks to the variety of materials and the fast production time, this process is ideal for series production.

Construction space:
380×300×350mm

Layer Height:
0.08mm

Material:
PA12, PA12 GB, PA11 and TPU

Keyence Agilista

The Keyence Agilista can process both plastics and silicones (Shore 35 and 65). Compared to other processes, inkjet technology offers the highest accuracy for plastic parts.

Construction space:
271×210×200mm

Layer Height:
0.015mm

Materials:
AR-M2 (synthetic resin); AR-H1 (synthetic resin) heat resistant up to 100°C;
AR-G1-L (silicone) Shore hardness 30; AR-G1-H
(Silicone) Shore hardness 60