Two Austrian tech companies, Ecoplus Plastics, and Mechatronics Cluster have published their findings on the application of additive manufacturing to industrial production. The companies began the €2.1-million Collective Research Network (CORNET) AM 4 Industry project two years ago.
3D printing
Ecoplus Plastics and Mechatronics Cluster work with eight research partners and fifty-one companies from Austria, Germany, and Belgium. RWTH Aachen University, FH, FOTEC and RHP-Technology GmbH were among the collaborating institutes.
The project's aim was to expand companies' awareness of 3D printing and allow them to make informed decisions about using it in production. The concept was intended to aid economic impact and allow for CO2 emissions reductions and business efficiency.
Successfully applying additive manufacturing technology hangs on the definitions used to characterise quality, as well as the methods developed for design and construction, the research said. Reliable monitoring of production processes, suitable guidelines for reworking and an appropriate cost-benefit model are also claimed to be key factors.
Benjamin Losert, Project Manager at EcoPlus Plastics, commented on the project results: “Thanks to the expertise and the committed and open-minded cooperation of the partners involved, we were able to develop several methodologies and guidelines that will prove to be extremely relevant for the industry.”
AM 4 Industry framework
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