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14 Jan 2008 - Expansion of FDM machine park
RP technology in production environments
We now house 12 FDM systems and are installing 2 more in the first quarter of 2008. This capacity increase is enhancing the position of Fused Deposition Modelling as a low volume manufacturing technique. It also strengthens Materialise’s position as largest state-of-the-art FDM capacity in Europe.
Over the last few months, we have installed 2 more Maxum systems with a build area of 600 x 500 x 600 mm. These allow the production of large models in tough ABS and ABSi plastic with water soluble supports. As FDM Maxum systems manufacture real parts from production thermoplastics, your parts closely predict end-product performance, with no appreciable shrinkage or moisture absorption.
Here is an overview of the FDM machines at Materialise headquarters:
- 8 FDM Maxums
Materials: ABS/ABSi
Build area: 600 x 500 x 600 mm - 3 FDM Titans
Materials: ABS/ABSi, PC/PC-ABS/PC-ISO, PPSU
Build area: 406 x 355 x 406 mm - 1 FDM Vantage
Materials: ABS/ABSi, PC/PC-ABS/PC-ISO
Build area: 406 x 355 x 406 mm
Again, we will be in a position to significantly increase our flexibility and reduce lead times for the production of functional FDM prototypes and series of production models. We can also offer other FDM service bureaus a way out when their capacity is overloaded or when they want to make use of the most up-to-date machines and materials.
A large capacity of RP systems allows us to jump on the personalised manufacturing train. Since the earliest days of rapid prototyping, experts have envisaged the application of the technology in the manufacturing process. That day has arrived. Advances in technology, materials and quality facilitate the production of finished goods with an RP machine. The growing use of RP technology in production environments is the main reason why Materialise continues to invest in new equipment.