D3-AM to present new LAB II ceramic 3D printer at Formnext
The new Micro-Particle Jetting (MPJ) system features a larger build platform
D3-AM GmbH (D3), a subsidiary of the Durst Group, is presenting a new format of the LAB II printing system for technical ceramics at Formnext 2024. In addition to its Micro-Particle Jetting (MPJ) technology, the new system features a larger build platform, enabling new applications for large-format high-performance parts made of technical ceramics.
The LAB II large-format system from D3-AM features a build volume of 400 x 480 x 160 mm³ (L x W x H). This advancement is a direct response to upcoming customer requirements. The system enables the production of larger ceramic components or a higher quantity of smaller parts per print, thanks to the expanded build volume and the efficiency of Micro-Particle Jetting (MPJ) technology.
“The MPJ technology opens up completely new areas in additive manufacturing of technical ceramics,” said Stefan Waldner, Chief Product Officer at D3. He adds, “The in-house developed inkjet printhead technology is the key to processing abrasive and dark ceramic base materials. This is unique in the AM industry.”
In the MPJ process, water-based suspensions are used to form a green body drop by drop. After sintering, the manufactured parts can be reliably used even under extreme and demanding conditions, such as those found in aerospace and the semiconductor industry.
Anna-Katharina Hofer, Head of Material Development at D3, emphasized, “The continued use of water-based ceramic suspensions means that the debinding process is no longer an obstacle, further simplifying the production of ceramic components.”
The LAB II system from D3-AM enables the production of complex and robust ceramics structures with impressive flexibility: from delicate to thick, crack-free walls with thicknesses over 20 mm. Thanks to gentle thermal post-processing, the system not only achieves more stable results but also offers significant energy savings. LAB II thus makes a valuable contribution to a resource-efficient and sustainable production process.
The LAB II system allows, depending on the component size, the production of numerous ceramics components in a single run, optimizing manufacturing for industries requiring complex high-performance components. At the same time, it enables the production of large and complex structures, enhancing efficiency and precision for demanding applications. As a result, components can be perfectly tailored to specific applications – rather than the other way around.
