Innovative extrusion profiles for 3D printer of Rapid Shape
When quality is paramount – rely on the power of precision
Innovative collaboration between Mifa Aluminium and Rapid Shape for 3D printer profiles
Mifa Aluminium has started a collaboration with Rapid Shape, a developer of 3D printers. The company was looking for an aluminium profile, which could serve both as a hook as well as a surface on which to print. After conversations with the customer and our engineers, our precision extrusion technology was introduced. And thanks to co-engineering and extensive testing, we developed two profiles that significantly improved Rapid Shape’s final product. One of the crucial elements was that the surface would adhere well to the 3D solution, but at the same time would also come off easily.
Working closely with the engineers, we managed to develop two aluminium extrusion profiles that meet the German printing company’s functionalities and high quality requirements. Various tests were carried out to achieve this. Thanks to the ability to produce in flexible quantities, we were able to deliver prototypes in series for the customer.
During the development phase for Rapid Shape, we tested various forms of surface treatment, drumming, and laser engraving. Because Mifa’s engineers were involved right from the design phase, we were able to deliver an optimal profile. Co-engineering and our CNC machining ultimately ensured even more accurate profiles. These profiles will eventually be assembled together.
Customer
Rapid Shape
Market
IndustryA reduced ecological footprint thanks to co-engineering
One of the main advantages of thin-walled extrusion profiles is the reduction in material use. This not only leads to lower production costs and time, but also helps reduce CO2 emissions. Indeed, since Mifa offers all technologies in-house, we can measure CO2 emissions for all these processes. Indeed, emissions are an increasingly important topic during customer discussions. Our engineers have developed a special tool for the life cycle analysis (LCA) of our aluminium extrusion profiles. For more information on this, please contact our sales department.
Quality and precision
Rapid Shape and Mifa both stand for delivering the highest quality. Our production processes are focused on achieving the optimal accuracy. In addition to our precision and CNC machining, we also offer surface treatments such as anodising, which extends the service life of aluminium profiles. In addition, Rapid Shape’s choice to anodise the profiles not only extends their lifespan, but the profiles also have a unique adhesion.
Another added advantage of offering everything in-house is the additional knowledge our engineers can provide in every step of the production process. For example, we extrude the most complex shapes from aluminium and magnesium. For Rapid Shape, we were able to ensure that the spaces in the profile are extruded, rather than solid. This significantly improved the final product, and also saved material, CO2, time and costs for the customer.
Innovative extrusion profiles for 3D printer of Rapid Shape
Innovative extrusion profiles for 3D printer of Rapid Shape
High performance cosmetic requirements in aerospace
High performance cosmetic requirements in aerospace
Contact for more information
Call or email Marc
Area Sales Manager