Massivit 3D has launched the Massivit 10000, a 3D printer that automates conventional composites tooling processes with the company’s new Cast-In-Motion technology that enables complex moulds, masters, mandrels, and prototypes to be directly 3D printed.
Based on its Gel Dispensing Printing (GDP) technology, Cast-In-Motion is said to bring to market the first 3D printed isotropic mould for composites manufacturing. As opposed to existing thermoplastic additive tooling systems, the Massivit 10000 uses thermoset-based materials to produce a single cast for an isotropic mould.
Tool patterns are created using a sacrificial, UV-curable gel using Massivit 3D’s large format GDP technology, which has a build area of 1200 x 1650 x 1500mm. The desired tool is then produced by casting any of a variety of dual-component thermoset engineering materials that closely match the mechanical and thermal process requirements.
When the 3D printed tool is immersed in water the sacrificial pattern material breaks off, leaving the desired mould, ready to use.
Additionally, Massivit says that the casting materials have highly predictable mechanical and thermal properties, a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and a high heat deflection temperature.
Massivit 3D CEO Erez Zimerman, said that the launch of the Massivit 10000 marked a “momentous occasion” in the composites manufacturing market. “The composites tooling arena has long been held back by antiquated processes and technologies,” he said. “It’s high time to facilitate digital transformation in this market and we are proud to bring the relevant knowhow, expertise, and innovation to the table for that purpose.”
Massivit says that the new process should enables composites fabricators to shorten their tooling workflows from a traditional 19 steps down to four steps by eliminating the need to produce an initial plug or master by directly printing and casting the mould.
Other business benefits include a reduction of manual labour and associated costs, a reduction of associated inventory and transportation, and a significant decrease in waste of materials.
The Israel-based company says that 17 pre-orders for the Massivit 10000 have been made to date, including two beta agreements with Israel-based company Kanfit, a manufacturer of composite material parts for the aviation market, and US-based company Lyons, a specialist in luxury bath ware. Massivit 10000 systems will begin to be delivered starting in the second half of 2022.
