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Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
The Fraunhofer IAPT is planning a study on additive manufacturing with silicones for applications in sealing technology. Participating companies can contribute their own questions.
The Fraunhofer Institute for Additive Production Technologies IAPT is planning a feasibility study on innovative approaches for the production of silicone seals using additive manufacturing (also known as AM). The project aims to exploit the advantages of AM, such as the cost-effective production of small batches or complex shapes for sealing technology. Specific industrial questions will be incorporated through participation in a crowdfunding model.
From mechanical engineering to chemistry and the automotive industry – seals are essential components in numerous sectors. Their production is typically carried out using conventional manufacturing methods. However, specific requirements could be implemented more flexibly, quickly, and economically with additive manufacturing.
Questions and Methodology of the Study
The announced study by the Fraunhofer IAPT investigates whether additively manufactured silicone seals meet the high demands of industry regarding mechanical properties and chemical resistance. The focus of the study is on tests to identify suitable materials and technologies and their validation.
Together with industry partners, the experts at Fraunhofer IAPT plan to analyze materials for identifying suitable AM materials. The investigations will also include surface quality concerning roughness and functionality, as well as surface finish, design freedoms, and hard-soft connections. Based on this, an evaluation of the benefits of AM as a complement to conventional manufacturing methods will take place.
Goals and Benefits for Industry
The study promises valuable insights for the future of sealing technology. With additive manufacturing, the costly production of tools for prototypes or complex seal geometries becomes unnecessary. Participation in the study is particularly worthwhile for companies looking to respond quickly to market changes with small quantities or to meet individual customer demands. Additionally, AM supports decentralized production, thereby enhancing independence from supply chains.
About Fraunhofer IAPT
The Fraunhofer IAPT stands for sustainable innovations in the field of additive manufacturing. Its portfolio includes research and development along the entire AM manufacturing route – from unique component designs and system solutions, including process and material levels, to factory planning and virtualization. All aspects of the additive manufacturing process are comprehensively considered from the initial idea and feasibility to industrial implementation in new or existing production environments. A particular focus is placed on socially relevant future topics in the fields of life sciences, energy, mobility, as well as security and defense. Our overarching goal is to ensure that additive manufacturing technologies are industrially applied, significantly contributing to increased productivity, resource conservation, resilience, and prosperity.
Press Contact
M.A. Carola Dellmann
Head of Marketing & Communication
Fraunhofer Institute for Additive Production Technologies IAPT
Am Schleusengraben 14
21029 Hamburg
Email: marketing@iapt.fraunhofer.de
Phone: +49 40 484010-500
Felix Weigand, M.Sc.
Group Leader Component Design
Fraunhofer Institute for Additive Production Technologies IAPT
Am Schleusengraben 14
21029 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 484010-652
felix.weigand@iapt.fraunhofer.de
www.iapt.fraunhofer.de
https://www.iapt.fraunhofer.de/en/Competences/additive-studies.html More information about crowdfunding studies by the Fraunhofer IAPT.
Additive manufacturing of silicone seals
Catharina Clemens
Fraunhofer IAPT
Cost-effective production of individual seals using additive manufacturing
Catharina Clemens
Fraunhofer IAPT
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Additive manufacturing of silicone seals
Catharina Clemens
Fraunhofer IAPT
Cost-effective production of individual seals using additive manufacturing
Catharina Clemens
Fraunhofer IAPT
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