The Fraunhofer Institute for Additive Manufacturing Applied sciences (IAPT) has introduced plans to conduct a feasibility research on utilizing additive manufacturing to supply silicone seals. The research will study whether or not 3D printed silicone seals can meet industrial requirements for mechanical properties and chemical resistance.
The analysis goals to deal with manufacturing challenges throughout a number of industries, together with mechanical engineering, chemistry, and automotive sectors. Whereas seals are historically manufactured utilizing typical strategies, additive manufacturing may probably supply extra flexibility and cost-effectiveness for small batch manufacturing and complicated geometries.
The research’s methodology will give attention to materials testing and expertise validation. Fraunhofer IAPT researchers plan to research varied supplies and consider floor high quality, together with roughness and performance. The investigation may also study design capabilities and hard-soft materials connections.
Corporations taking part within the research by means of a crowdfunding mannequin can contribute their particular questions and necessities. This collaborative strategy permits industrial companions to immediately affect the analysis path whereas gaining insights into potential manufacturing alternate options for his or her sealing functions.
The analysis may very well be significantly related for producers in search of options for small-volume manufacturing or customized seal designs. The research will assess how additive manufacturing may complement current manufacturing strategies, with extra advantages together with lowered tooling prices and extra versatile manufacturing capabilities.
Supply: idw-online.de
