The extension of the metal injection molding process chain in the field of additive manufacturing makes sense with regard to future applications with bionic designs and optimization of the topology. Component characteristics and economic efficiency require different process technologies or manufacturing strategies in 3D metal printing. Thus, in 2020, Schunk expanded its expertise with the CEM (Composite Extrusion Modeling) process by adding an ExAM 255 multi-material 3D printing system from AIM3D. The first results of this development partnership are now available, as Christian Stertz, project manager for plant engineering at Schunk, explains to us.
3D component development in copper has a strategic dimension for Schunk, as there are only a few suppliers on the market. The conductive material is of interest for certain components in the electrical industry. However, the spectrum of industries and applications is broad: There are applications with a focus on thermal management, primarily in mechanical and plant engineering. And there are applications with a focus on low-loss energy transmission, such as e-mobility, welding and hardening technology, as well as in energy supply.