Additive manufacturing as 3D printing ceramics
Since its beginnings in the 1980s, the technology has developed rapidly. At ceramitec in Munich, you can find out what is possible with ceramics in 3D printing. But before then, here is a compact overview of manufacturing processes and applications in the ceramics industry.
Ceramics from the 3D printer
Create a technical drawing in the CAD program and send it to the 3D printer. The principle is simple, and the result is convincing down to the last detail. Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing for short, builds three-dimensional components of any shape and size layer by layer.
Additive manufacturing processes in an industrial context, also known as generative manufacturing or rapid technologies, process different materials such as plastics, metals, resins, carbon, graphite, cells—to name but a few—and ceramics at an ever faster rate.
Additive manufacturing processes for the ceramics industry
In the early days of 3D printing with ceramics, lithographic processes such as SLS (selective laser sintering) and DLP (digital light processing) were expensive and time-consuming. The quantities were low, and the costs high.
In the meantime, 3D printers, also for ceramics, are available commercially. Relatively easy to use, they unwind filament, melt it in the extruder, and apply the liquid material to the printing plate layer by layer using a print head.
This principle basically applies to all 3D-printed ceramic components. The industrial context poses major challenges for manufacturers, users, and researchers. The suspension in particular is a sticking point. Lithoz has turned the tide with lithography-based ceramic manufacturing (LCM).
In the LCM process, the 3D printer uses a liquid suspension of fine-grained ceramic powder and UV-sensitive monomers to build up the component layer by layer around a green body. The green body is removed in a final sintering process after debinding the polymers.
Laser-induced slip casting (LIS) is one of the latest processes. An innovation that opens up new possibilities for ceramic 3D printing. A process which, alongside new systems and materials, is one of the highlights of this year’s ceramitec.
Ceramics from the 3D printer offers advantages
With the advantages of technical ceramics, additive processes such as 3D printing can be used to produce stable and resilient ceramic components that meet the highest demands.
- Unlimited design freedom for complex applications
- Precision down to the last detail, even with complicated shapes
- Efficiency through tool-free manufacturing for a short time to market
- Quality for mechanical, thermal, or chemical requirements
- Cost benefits for small batches and one-off products
Discover ceramic 3D printing at ceramitec
ceramitec showcases additive manufacturing processes, materials, and 3D printers for ceramics. Visitors will see 3D-printed ceramic parts, which are revolutionizing industries, in a host of applications. Manufacturers, users, and scientists will report from practice and research on how ceramic printing for highly complex applications through to industrial series production is developing.
Use for products from additive manufacturing
Researchers and developers are working on innovations in many areas. Since the LCM process from Lithoz paved the way for 3D printing with ceramics, ceramic components have been revolutionizing entire industries. The design flexibility knows no bounds.
Ceramics from the 3D printer are used wherever highly complex shapes are required in small quantities. Many of the products are high-performance ceramics. Lightweight and stable, they can withstand extreme mechanical, thermal and chemical stress. Ceramics are also an alternative to metal and plastic.
Maximum potential for 3D printing
- Mechanical engineering
- Aerospace
- Medical technology
- Dental technology
International experts for ceramic 3D printing at ceramitec
Users from many sectors are asking for 3D printers, materials and services related to additive manufacturing in the ceramics industry. The market is picking up speed. At ceramitec in Munich, you will meet the innovators of additive manufacturing.
Application example of additive manufacturing:
3D Printing - from blueprint to bedside
The relevance of additive manufacturing, particularly 3D printing, in practical applications is demonstrated by the companies Cerhum and 3DCeram. They delve deeply into the latest advancements in bioceramics and their crucial role in healthcare and technology.
The webinar showcases case studies and practical examples that provide insight into the practical applications of bioceramics, especially in the realm of 3D-printed implants and bone grafts. This demonstration goes beyond theoretical insights, imparting practical knowledge and insights into the innovative applications of bioceramics. It encourages direct interaction with industry experts, fostering an environment where a deeper understanding of bioceramics and the 3D printing of bone implants is cultivated.
Experience the exhibitors at ceramitec
More and more startups are exhibiting among the well-known global players. As the first patents expire, spin-offs from well-known research institutes, among others, are presenting market-ready solutions. With users from numerous sectors looking for specific solutions, the trade fair becomes a melting pot of new ideas. Here you will find all exhibitors of ceramitec in the field of additive manufacturing.
Ceramics straight from the printer!
Additive manufacturing as 3D printing ceramics. Since its beginnings in the 1980s, the technology has developed rapidly. At ceramitec in Munich, you can find out what is possible with ceramics in 3D printing.
FAQ
Additive manufacturing builds multidimensional components layer by layer along structures or in free space. 3D printers process different materials, including ceramics.
Unlike conventional manufacturing processes, additive manufacturing does not require any expensive tools. There are no limits on design with 3D printing. Production times are short with the highest quality, even for complex parts.
3D printers use a print head to build up liquid material in a multi-stage printing, curing and firing process. The suspension of materials is a critical issue in additive manufacturing.
3D printing is another word for additive manufacturing. In an industrial context, the terms generative manufacturing or rapid technologies are well known.