Rapid Prototyping

The application of Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes for ceramics offer high innovation potentials with regard to process technology, design and possibility to generate new types of composite materials and gradient materials. Based on a CAD record the respective ceramic part is generated layer by layer without using a mold. Thus, the production of ceramic components with complex geometry, for example with freeform areas, undercuts und hollow structures is possible. Within the framework of R&D it has already been proven that all current AM processes can be adapted to ceramics offering promising application potential for the production of complex ceramic components in the future.

 

Products and services offered

 

• Outline-controlled layer-by-layer deposition of thermoplastic ceramic masses (multi-jet solidification, fused deposition layering)
  
• Manufacturing of three-dimensional gradient macrostructures and components
  
• Selective laser sintering (SLS) of silicon carbide components
  
• 3D-printing of complex ceramic components via Binder Jetting
  
• Powder modification for application in SLS and binder jetting
  
• Development of suspensions, pastes and binder systems for different AM techniques
  
• Rapid tooling: ceramic tool inserts, plastic molds for ceramic casting processes

 

Examples and references

 

• Mirror carrier from SiSiC with integrated cooling channels made by selective laser sintering
  
• Material development for laser sintered SiSiC
  
• 3D-printing of complex hydroxyapatite parts to be used as bioactive implants
  
• Three-dimensional gradient SiC/TiC components by modified multi-jet solidification process (MJS)
  
• SiSiC hybrid components by conventional selective laser sintering and laser microsintering (in cooperation with the University of Applied Sciences Mittweida)  

The Fraunhofer IKTS is member of the Fraunhofer Additive Manufacturing Alliance.