The SKZ Plastics Center expands its range of services with new system technology

Material extrusion: processing high-performance thermoplastics
The new P400 system from Apium enables the processing of demanding high-performance thermoplastics such as PEEK, PPSU and PEI using the fused layer modeling (FLM) process. These materials are characterized by their high temperature and chemical resistance as well as their mechanical strength. The system opens up new possibilities for the production of complex, functional components that are used in industries such as aerospace, mobility, medical technology and mechanical engineering. The extended material selection enables customized solutions for the most demanding requirements. Thanks to a second print head, the production system offers the option of manufacturing 2K components or components with a support structure from a different material.

The SKZ is also expanding its ability to process pellets directly. The use of pellet extruders not only ensures lower material costs, but also a wider range of materials. Materials that are not available as filaments can be used, and particularly soft or highly filled materials can be processed.

Laser sintering: Large-format components and a wide range of material options
With the new WLS3232 laser sintering system from Weirather, larger components can now be manufactured from engineering plastics such as PA 6, PA 6.6 and PBT. The large installation space and the high installation space temperature of up to 250 °C support a wide range of materials. For optimum component quality, the parameters can be set depending on the material and component. The integrated thermal imaging camera guarantees continuous, non-contact process monitoring to ensure high component quality.

The system also has interchangeable process units and a preheatable storage container, enabling seamless production without interruptions. This ensures high efficiency and makes it possible to optimize the production flow.

Resin-based processes: DLP system for maximum precision
The newly installed Pi200 system from Uniontech, which uses the DLP (Digital Light Processing) method, is particularly suitable for the production of components with high precision requirements. Thanks to its good resolution and repeat accuracy, it is ideal for the production of additively manufactured tool inserts for injection molding production in addition to the direct production of components for the end application. The free parameterization allows adaptation to a wide range of resin materials, enabling the SKZ to meet individual customer requirements.

“By expanding our production capacities with these new systems, we can offer our customers an even wider range of materials and processing options,” explains Adrian Beetz, Group Head of Additive Manufacturing Research. "This is an important step towards meeting the constantly growing requirements in the field of high-performance plastics and additive manufacturing. From simple contract manufacturing of components to more complex projects, we offer our customers the right support."

Further information: Additive manufacturing

The SKZ is climate protection company and a member of the Zuse Association. This is an association of independent, industry-related research institutions that pursue the goal of improving the performance and competitiveness of industry, especially SMEs, through innovation and networking.