Additive manufacturing differs fundamentally from subtractive processes such as milling or turning. While in the latter a workpiece is always created by removing material, additive manufacturing produces workpieces by applying material layer by layer.
In this process, the digital 3D model is first cut into 2D layers using slicing software. The printer then uses the resulting print parameters to produce the workpiece layer by layer on a build platform.
This process eliminates the need for machining tools. The designer therefore gains the freedom to realise even very complex structures that would otherwise be impossible to implement.
Plastic
For additive manufacturing in the field of plastics, we use the FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) process, in which a plastic wire (PLA) is melted and placed on the build platform by the print head.
Application examples:
- Sensor covers adapted to the respective installation situation
- Gripper jaw tests, fast testing of design changes
- Parts handling on pallet system, defined transport for transfer to gripper jaws
- Media guidance, defined guidance of pneumatic or hydraulic hoses along moving parts
Technical specifications
| Installation space in mm | 295 x 195 x 165 / 305 x 305 x 300 |
| Material | PLA / ABS / more on request |
Metal
The "Creator RA" metal printer creates layers by using a laser beam to fuse the powder spread in thin layers (20 - 100 µm) on the build platform, layer by layer. In addition to tool and stainless steel, we can thus also process Co, Ni and Cu alloys as well as Al and Ti alloys.
In the DVS TECHNOLOGY GROUP, we use metal pressure parts, e.g. for process nozzles in internal cylindrical grinding. Due to the design freedom in manufacturing, the nozzles can be manufactured with "bent bores". In this way, the cooling lubricant is applied precisely at the desired point instead of "flooding" the entire bore to be on the safe side, as was previously the case. This targeted wetting leads to higher manufacturing and process quality.
Technical specifications
| Installation space in mm | Ø = 100 x 100 (L x D) |
| Material | stainless steel 17-4 PH |
| Service | Consulting, development and design, as well as production of prototypes and small series |
