At Formnext 2024, TRUMPF, a leader in laser and additive manufacturing technology, unveiled a series of key advancements designed to significantly enhance productivity and material versatility in 3D printing. The company introduced its upgraded TruPrint 3000 metal 3D printer, featuring enhanced dual-laser capabilities and an integrated cooling system that promises faster production times and higher-quality components, particularly in aluminium applications.
The TruPrint 3000 is now equipped with a 700-watt fibre laser, doubling the laser spot size from 80 µm to 200 µm. This improvement allows the system to process larger areas and handle more complex components, making it highly efficient for industries requiring precision and durability. The cooling system integrated into the build chamber accelerates material cooling, which is especially critical for maintaining the quality of aluminium alloys used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and motorsports.
Aluminium Alloys for Automotive, Aerospace and More
TRUMPF’s expanded range of aluminium alloys is tailored to meet the specific needs of high-performance sectors. The new alloys are designed for 3D printing applications ranging from prototyping to full-scale production. As highlighted by Jan Christian Schauer, who leads additive manufacturing material selection at TRUMPF, these alloys offer significant benefits such as lightweight construction, material efficiency, and design flexibility. The printed parts are said to be comparable in quality to those produced through traditional machining, with the added advantage of reduced material waste and greater control over part geometry.
The potential applications of these new aluminium alloys are vast, with TRUMPF showcasing them in various sectors, including automotive lightweight components, aerospace parts, and precision-engineered motorsports products. These innovations in aluminium 3D printing represent a leap forward in producing high-quality, custom components that meet the rigorous demands of these industries.
Additive Manufacturing Revolutionizing Semiconductor Equipment
In addition to its work with aluminium, TRUMPF is also advancing the role of additive manufacturing in the semiconductor industry. The company demonstrated 3D-printed components, such as manifolds used in water and gas lines for semiconductor equipment. According to Marco Andreetta, who leads TRUMPF’s semiconductor division, the use of metal 3D printing for semiconductor parts enhances precision and functionality while reducing production waste. This approach, he notes, helps manufacturers achieve more efficient, cost-effective production processes and contributes to the growing trend of additive manufacturing in industries requiring high-performance and custom-engineered parts.
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