ARBURGadditive presents 3D printers and applications at Formnext 2024

ARBURGadditive will be showcasing its latest developments in the field of additive manufacturing at Formnext 2024 in Frankfurt. The focus will be on the new Freeformer 550-3X, which will be presented to the public for the first time.

The Freeformer 550-3X has an installation space of 230 x 230 x 230 millimetres and two discharge units. It processes original plastic pellets using the Arburg Plastic Freeforming (AKF) process. A special feature is the new production assistant, which has been integrated into the Gestica control system. It actively supports the operator from loading the build job to the start of 3D printing.

In addition to the Freeformer, ARBURGadditive will be presenting further innovations. The TiQ 8 filament printer from innovatiQ now also processes flame-retardant materials such as PC and PEKK. For the first time, the LiQ 5 can print liquid silicone (LSR) with the aid of a special support material.

Progress has also been made in the area of material development. In collaboration with Ems Chemie, the material TR 90, which is approved for food and drinking water, has been optimised for 3D printing. This amorphous PA12 is suitable for the production of flexible and chemical-resistant frames for sports glasses, for example.

An interesting application example shows the combination of 3D printing and injection moulding. Specially adapted grippers are used to remove thin-walled plant pots from an injection mould. These consist of a 3D-printed centrepiece made of fibre-reinforced plastic filament and gripper rings in a hard/soft combination, which are produced using the AKF process.

ARBURGadditive will also be presenting the initial results of the ‘Starfish’ research project. Here, StarJet technology from the Freiburg Institute for Microsystems Technology is being combined with the freeformer to produce multi-material hybrid components such as hybrid sensors in a single step.