voxeljet
The voxeljet VX200 platform.
The voxeljet VX200 platform.
German 3D printing company, voxeljet will debut the VX200, its first 3D printing system based on the High Speed Sintering process, at this year’s formnext powered by TCT.
The provider of large format 3D printers and on-demand parts services has, until now, focused on tooling and pattern making applications. With the introduction of this new HSS machine, voxeljet will enter the thermoplastics market with the capability to manufacture end-use products.
Complementing voxeljet’s present solutions portfolio, HSS, an admittedly similar process to Selective Laser Sintering, Multi Jet Fusion or injection moulding as listed in a company press release, is to enable the printing of versatile and functional prototype and functional end-use parts. The process, which was licensed to voxeljet from Loughborough University, works by jetting an infrared absorbing ink onto layers of plastic powder. Each layer of the part is exposed to infrared light, causing the powder to melt and form. voxeljet outlines brackets and housings as two applications whose manufacture may be enhanced with its VX200 platform. Boasting ‘excellent’ surface quality, sharp and clear edges, as well as true-to-detail resolution, the HSS process can deliver parts for use in the automotive, industrial equipment and consumer goods markets.
voxeljet
voxeljet HSS parts
Sample HSS parts printed on the VX200.
The X200, which will be supported by voxeljet’s ProPrint software, will be showcased for the first time at formnext powered by TCT on Booth 3.1 E18. Already it is generating a lot of excitement within the company.
“Our new high speed sintering process will initially be launched on our VX200 platform,” said Dr Ingo Ederer, Chief Executive Officer of voxeljet. “With that, we are excited to offer to our customer great flexibility regarding process and machine parameters, as both can be tailored by our customers to their specific needs. We offer the option of open sourcing for materials, as our customers can choose various testing and validation services from voxeljet.
“ProPrint, our new and modular printing software, is available in a full access development-kit, allowing for even greater customisation for options. The availability and application of a wide range of 3D printable thermoplastic materials, including elastomers, makes this product line ideally suited for material suppliers, universities, and other institutions.”
voxeljet
voxeljet HSS graphic
Description of the HSS process.
Christian Traeger, voxeljet Director Sales and Marketing, added: “voxeljet’s industrial printers enable high-quality print resolutions with layer times that are consistent no matter what is being printed. Due to large printing widths of our print heads, we see a high potential for increased printing rates on larger platforms in the future, making this process even more productive compared to other additive manufacturing processes.”
