Additive Manufacturing and 3D printing feature

High-temperature 3D print filtration launched

BOFA is reinforcing its position in portable fume and particulate filtration systems for additive manufacturing with its latest generation 3D PrintPRO technology designed specifically for high-temperature processes.

The 3D PrintPRO HT focuses on 230V markets and filters high-temperature particulate, gases and nanoparticles emitted during the processing of polymers in print chambers. It operates at up to 100°C, enabling manufacturers to work high-performance functional materials, while protecting the print head and working environment from airborne contaminants. It is particularly suited to fused deposition modelling (FDM), stereolithography and digital light processing.

The machine’s performance arrives via the application of advanced electronics, thermal insulation, a highly insulated connection kit, smart airflow management and an advanced filtration architecture – ensuring energy efficient, low heat loss emissions extraction in higher temperature chamber environments.

BOFA’s modular design approach makes the 3D PrintPRO HT suitable for closed-loop continuous operation, delivering a maximum airflow rate of up to 100 m³h to filter particulate during the print process. There is also an open-loop intermittent operation (purge cycle) at a fixed airflow of 30 m³h, which filters both particulate and gases. Both demands can be met via a pairing kit. The technology also features filter exchange indicators and incorporates filter status communication to the host machine.

Arran Morgan, senior product manager at BOFA, says: “This latest generation of our 3D PrintPRO HT system demonstrates how BOFA is reflecting a constantly evolving additive manufacturing marketplace. It means that manufacturers are able to benefit from working high-performance polymers that require elevated chamber temperatures, while helping safeguard both the workplace atmosphere and their investment in expensive equipment through portable extraction.”

More information www.bofainternational.com

First infinitely reusable manufacturing mould

Fyous is launching the world’s first infinitely reusable moulding technology, known as PolyMorphic moulding, at this week’s RAPID + TCT event in Los Angeles. Fyous’ technology can shapeshift in under 20 minutes, producing zero tooling waste and making usable parts 14 times faster than 3D printing.

The technology, devised and engineered by Fyous’ co-founders Joshua Shires and Thomas Bloomfield, features more than 28,000 densely packed pins that create the mould. Once the pins are in position, the mould can withstand 6 tonne of distributed pressure. Metamorphic by nature, Fyous says that patent-pending PolyMorphic moulding has the potential to transform the manufacturing industry, reducing waste generated through tooling amends, coupled with faster production times in comparison to 3D printing and traditional mould-making.

By inputting a 3D CAD model, Fyous software generates the PolyMorphic mould shape. The PolyMorphic machine then shapeshifts the mould to create the intended product. On completion of production, the PolyMorphic mould returns to the machine ready for the next shapeshift.

“Our mission is to deliver a revolutionary moulding technology that will disrupt prototyping and manufacturing sectors worldwide,” says Shires. “Using PolyMorphic moulding to create fast, accurate moulds for tooling will reduce time to market for a huge array of products and unlock commercial viability for desirable products which currently have no cost-effective manufacture method.”

He adds: “PolyMorphic moulding is a zero-waste technology where raw materials are conserved and the moulds can be used repeatedly. We will remove not only physical waste in the form of materials and tooling, but also remove wasted time by accelerating product development, prototyping and manufacture efficiencies.” 

More information www.fyous.com