New technology and test center for Rösler brand AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology

The ideal environment for process and product development for post processing of 3D printed components

The new technology and test center of AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology represents a significant milestone in the development of processes and products for the post processing of products created with AM methods. The new center is outfitted with state-of-the-art engineering software and various 3D printing systems. However, the main focus is on an exceptionally well-equipped post processing section, where AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology can demonstrate an impressive range of machinery for post processing of 3D printed components.

Additive manufacturing allows the quick and flexible production of metallic or plastic components with precisely defined material characteristics. All these components have one thing in common: Their surface requires different kinds of finishes, which must comply with the most stringent finishing specifications. These requirements pose a special challenge for the post processing of 3D printed components. AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology is meeting this challenge head-on with its new, generously equipped technology and test center at the company’s location in Untermerzbach.

State-of-the-art technologies along the complete AM process chain under one roof
In its new test center with a total area of 400 square meters, the Rösler division specializing in 3D post processing solutions, can demonstrate the complete process chain of additive manufacturing. Manuel Laux, Head of AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology, explains: “It is our declared goal to develop the best possible process solutions for our customers. To do this we must be able to fully understand every detail of the additive manufacturing process and must actually be in a position to demonstrate the various manufacturing stages. Only with such a hands-on approach will we be able take into account all the facets of additive manufacturing.” The new test center is not only equipped with the latest engineering, printing and post processing hard- and software, but the actual building was also carefully prepared, For example, suitable air intake and venting systems were installed to maintain exact temperature and humidity levels in the pressure area.

For engineering and topology optimization the center is utilizing NX CAD software from Siemens. The 3D scanner Atos from GOM allows quick and precise optimization of engineering operations. In addition, it is also utilized for quality control. The printing sections are strictly separated by material categories, and the actual printing equipment is placed in vibration absorbing areas. Metallic materials are printed with an EOS M 290 system, whereas for the creation of plastic components a Polyjet printer Objet 260 Connex 3 from Stratasys, a Multi Jet Fusion printer HP Jet Fusion 3D 5200 and a FDM printer are available.

To allow test trials for the development of optimum, automated post processing solutions and to select the most suitable equipment, AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology installed its own post processing equipment line in the form of the models S1, S2 and S3 as well as M1, M2 and M3. Moreover, the test center is equipped with various post processing systems from the AM Solutions partners GPAINNOVA and PostProcess Technologies. These include a GPAINNOVA DLyte 100 and the first installation in the world of a DLyte 10.000. In addition, the DEMI, DECI, DECI Duo and Rador from PostProcess Technologies are available for test trials.

With such a comprehensive equipment portfolio the new technology center is an ideal partner for the efficient specification and development as well as optimization of customer specific processes and products for post processing of 3D printed components. This includes unpacking, removal of support structures, stripping of loose as well as sintered-on powder from the work pieces, but also general cleaning, surface smoothing, edge radiusing and, even polishing.