SWISSto12, an advanced radiofrequency (RF) product manufacturer and leader in telecommunications satellite production, has made a significant investment in additive manufacturing (AM) by purchasing four MetalFab G2 3D printers from Additive Industries. This move strengthens SWISSto12’s position in the aerospace sector, where it is known for deploying additive manufacturing technologies to create highly optimized components with reduced mass and part count, enhancing the performance of RF products used in space applications.
SWISSto12’s Proven Track Record in Aerospace Additive Manufacturing
SWISSto12 is no newcomer to the world of additive manufacturing. A spin-out of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) in Lausanne, the company has built a reputation for its innovative RF solutions, which have been widely adopted in aerospace, particularly in satellite communication systems. Notably, SWISSto12 has successfully deployed over 1,000 functional additive-manufactured RF components in space with zero failures, underscoring the reliability and durability of their technology in high-stakes environments.
MetalFab G2: Precision and Automation for Aerospace Applications
The MetalFab G2 systems chosen by SWISSto12 are equipped with four full-field lasers, providing precise and efficient metal 3D printing capabilities. With a build plate size of 420mm x 420mm, the MetalFab G2 printers are designed for high throughput, producing complex parts with excellent accuracy. The advanced automation features—such as laser calibration, powder handling, and automated build setup—are particularly suited for aerospace production, where efficiency and precision are paramount. Three of the purchased printers will feature dual-core versions, further enhancing SWISSto12’s ability to scale production while maintaining quality.
Scaling Production for Aerospace Growth
The acquisition of these MetalFab G2 systems is a critical step in SWISSto12’s strategic efforts to scale up production and meet the growing demand for aerospace applications. Emile de Rijk, CEO of SWISSto12, emphasized that this investment would allow the company to continue delivering high-quality RF products while meeting the increasing production volumes required by aerospace customers.
Mark Massey, CEO of Additive Industries, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, noting that the advanced automation and precision offered by the MetalFab G2 printers align perfectly with the rigorous demands of SWISSto12’s aerospace manufacturing operations.
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