Hybrid concepts for fast tool repairs
Components are usually designed for ablative manufacturing. This means they are often more material intensive and more voluminous than their actual function requires. “With the additive approach, parts can be designed in such a way that the necessary properties are created specifically at the desired points. Combining additive and subtractive processes also offers potential for optimisation. For example, a conventionally manufactured part can be additively hardened on a precisely defined area,” Klaus Eimann explains.
P&G is increasingly using hybrid concepts of this kind to maintain machines and tools. “With mould inserts in injection moulding, it is often the case that material breaks away or wears down. These spots can be repaired effectively and quickly using additive technologies, such as laser deposition welding. There is no need to purchase or stock a spare part or even a spare tool. Instead, the repaired component is reused in a refined form, so to speak – with at least the same properties as a new part. This procedure reduces downtimes to a minimum,” says the expert, pointing out the sustainable effects of additive maintenance.
Well-structured Rapid.Tech 3D – a recommendation for medium-sized companies
Klaus Eimann and his team have been working on the topic of AM for around 20 years now. “We have an excellently functioning ecosystem of industry and research in Germany and Europe to drive 3D printing forward. At the moment, it is mainly large companies that are using this potential. But there are also many business opportunities here specifically for small and medium-sized companies. Unfortunately, these companies often lack the time to explore the possibilities. That's why it's good that there are events like Rapid.Tech 3D. The specialist conference and the exhibition provide a highly structured and focused insight into current AM developments,” Klaus Eimann emphasises.
High-calibre specialist programme with innovations from AM application and AM research
The opportunities and challenges of 3D printing in other mobility sectors will also be highlighted by keynote speakers from Porsche, Sauber and the German-Emirati Institute. In addition, experts from Autodesk, nFrontier, Procter & Gamble and Toolcraft will be presenting the latest AM product and process applications. The Construction Engineering, Design, Aviation, Medicine, Mobility, Software, Tools and News from AM trade forums will offer a more in-depth look at the keynote topics on all three days of the conference. The latest developments in and prospects for AM research and training will be considered in the Science forums. This strand of the programme will include a presentation from the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft on current results and projects in the field of additive manufacturing.
Detailed information on the keynote speeches and the content of the individual trade forums can be found in the overview of the programme for the Rapid.Tech 3D specialist conference at the following link: https://www.rapidtech-3d.com/visitors/congress-programme/
Big-name exhibitors have already booked their places
The Rapid.Tech 3D exhibition also offers an insight into the latest developments and applications in additive manufacturing. Companies and research institutions such as alphacam, Farsoon Europe, FIT, Stratasys and Trumpf have already booked their stands in Erfurt. There is still time to book exhibition space. More detailed information is available from the following link: https://www.rapidtech-3d.com/exhibitors/registration-prices/
Book tickets conveniently online
The Rapid.Tech 3D ticket shop is already open. Tickets to attend the conference on one, two or three days can be conveniently booked online at: https://www.rapidtech-3d.com/ticket/
