Stratasys Announces Large-Scale Manufacturing Systems

Stratasys, a provider of 3D printing solutions, has introduced several next-generation technologies as part of its Shaping What's Next vision for the future of manufacturing. According to the company, Stratasys’ industrial FDM 3D printing expertise can respond to the needs of customers’ most challenging applications, addressing manufacturers’ needs to rapidly produce strong parts ranging in size from an automobile armrest to an entire aircraft interior panel.

“Additive manufacturing represents a great opportunity for Boeing and our customers, so we made a strategic decision more than a decade ago to work closely with Stratasys on this technology,"said Darryl Davis, president, Boeing Phantom Works. "We are always looking for ways to reduce the cost and weight of aircraft structures, or reduce the time it takes to prototype and test new tools and products so we can provide them to customers in a more affordable and rapid manner. The Stratasys Infinite-Build 3D Demonstrator enables products to be made at a much larger and potentially unlimited length, offering us a breakthrough tool to add to our robust additive manufacturing processes.”

The Infinite-Build 3D Demonstrator, which is designed to address the requirements of aerospace and automotive for large, lightweight, thermoplastic parts with repeatable mechanical properties, will be on display at IMTS next month. In addition to partnering with Boeing, Stratasys will work with Ford to test and develop new applications for automotive-grade, 3D-printed materials.

To bring 3D printing into manufacturing applications, Stratasys is also working with Siemens on the Robotic Composite 3D Demonstrator. It is an 8-axis motion system that lets users have directional material placement for strength while reducing the need for speed-hindering support strategies.

“Siemens is pleased to support Stratasys in their innovative additive manufacturing initiatives, of which the Stratasys Robotic Composite 3D Demonstrator is one of the most promising,"said Arun Jain, VP, Motion Control, Digital Factory US, Siemens. "By working closely with Stratasys on motion control and CNC automation, Siemens is helping to create a flexible, multi-function manufacturing workflow that puts 3D printing firmly in the factory. We look forward to continuing to work with Stratasys to build manufacturing solutions that transform industries."

For more information, read DE's in-person coverage of the announcements and visit Stratasys.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.