Additive manufacturing processes

Additive manufacturing (3D-printing) allows the use of various materials, that can be processed with different technologies. We help you to find the right technology for your individual needs. For optimal results, we are able to rework additive manufactured parts with our conventional plants if necessary.

We use the following additive manufacturing processes:

  • FFF
  • SLA
  • SLS

FFF

Fused deposition modelling might be the most common manufacturing process. The filament is put through the heated extrusion head. It melts and is brought in layers on the build platform. FDM might be one of the most reasonable processes with a wide range of different materials available.

  • minimum waste

  • hollow components possible

  • extremely light parts

  • cost-effective for small series

  • structured surface

  • lengthy manufacturing process

  • medium precision

  • warping possible

SLA

Stereolithography uses liquid photopolymer, which is partly hardened by UV light. A laser uses a movable mirror to solidify the liquid (resin) layer by layer.

  • filigree models possible

  • many materials available

  • perfect surface

  • pinpoint accurancy

  • rework necessary

  • parts UV unstable

SLS

Selective laser sintering uses a laser to melt polymer powder selective layer by layer. Is one layer set hard, new powder is brought on the build platform.

  • printed parts flexible, tough and usable

  • no support structure necessary

  • complex parts printable

  • cost-effective for small series

  • expensive for single parts

  • structured surface

  • Oberflächen leicht strukturiert