German analysis institute SKZ Würzburg has invested in an S1 shot blast system from Rösler AM Options to help its research into the impact of blast media on the floor of 3D printed elements.
SKZ is a centre for plastic supplies analysis with an additive manufacturing unit based mostly in Würzburg. The organisation participates in a bunch of analysis tasks, whereas additionally creating coaching programmes for firms fascinated about investing in 3D printing know-how.
To help its analysis efforts, SKZ has invested in an S1 shot blasting system, reporting that its ‘uncomplicated blast media change’ permits the institute to create fast and direct comparisons between totally different media like glass, ceramic or poly beads.
To do that, SKZ makes use of CT scanning to analyse the results of various blast media on the floor end of elements. This analysis permits SKZ to find out which blasting media are probably the most appropriate for any given utility. Orthotic or prosthetic implants, for instance, would must be post-processed with poly-beads quite than glass in order to forestall microfine glass particles. Whereas assessing which blasting media ought to be used for which half, SKZ additionally analyses floor qualities produced by totally different processing parameters.
“For quantity manufacturing, the repeatability of the outcomes and time are important parameters, which we research rigorously,” commented, SKZ Senior Scientist for Additive Manufacturing Kevin Popp. “With our guide shot blasting operations, the floor finishes have been all around the board. The S1 produces constant floor finishes on massive work piece volumes, even on extraordinarily complicated elements like mind gears with their delicate gear tooth geometries.
“Prior to now, it took us an entire day to blast 300 items and the outcomes have been extremely inconsistent. At present, we simply want quarter-hour for a similar work piece quantity, with wonderful, constant floor finishes. In fact, we take into account ourselves as a pathfinder for additive manufacturing and wish to information the individuals to this know-how in a wise method.”
