ValCUN, a startup focusing on aluminum additive manufacturing and relative hardware, has sold its first Minerva Printer to Sirris, a Belgian innovation center for industry. This marks a momentous step forward for the company in terms of the adoption of its Molten Metal Deposition (MMD) technology.
“We are thrilled to announce this collaboration with Sirris,” said Jonas Galle, CEO of ValCUN, “their expertise in technological research and development perfectly complements the groundbreaking capabilities of our Minerva Printer and its MMD technology. Together, we aim to push the boundaries of what’s achievable in the world of Advanced Manufacturing. The industrial network of Sirris will be of the first ones in the world to explore and benefit this technology.”
The MMD process is a single-step metal deposition, using readily available off-the-shelf metal wire as feedstock, ensuring user-friendly operation and rapid implementation resulting in cost reduction of 75% to more than 90%, compared to other metal AM technologies. This opens the door to industrial and serial production. MMD promises greater sustainability, with high energy efficiency, reduced waste and elimination of the need for toxic chemicals or powders. Because of its straightforward post-processing (no need for de-binding, sintering, powder removal or HIP), MMD also offers exceptional time-to-part.
Sirris, renowned for its commitment to drive innovation forward has recognized the transformative potential of the MMD-based Minerva Printer. Minerva’s deployability, quality, and sustainability benefits align seamlessly with Sirris’ mission to foster innovation and provide cutting-edge solutions to its extensive network of 2,500 industry partners. In addition, the Minerva Printer is focused on aluminum, a highly sought-after metal by industry that is under-served by existing AM processes despite the potential for numerous industrial applications.
The Minerva Printer opens up new horizons for industrial applications ranging from structural components to heat exchangers and manifolds, offering a deployable, easy-to-use, and sustainable production solution. Its cost-effectiveness appeals to a diverse range of industries seeking to embrace aluminum AM.
ValCUN’s team of experts will support Sirris in adopting the Minerva Printer as ValCUN and Sirris join forces in research projects to further develop the MMD technology, aiming to address specific industrial challenges and unlock additional value for the industry. Together, the two entities intend to work towards harnessing its transformative potential and providing valuable solutions for various industrial needs.
