Rohde & Schwarz integrates Solukon's SFM-AT350 system

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Have you ever wondered how cutting-edge technology companies optimize the quality of their 3D printed components? At the heart of this journey is the integration of advanced systems that streamline the manufacturing process. Today, let’s explore how Rohde & Schwarz, a global leader in technology, has elevated its additive manufacturing capabilities by integrating Solukon’s SFM-AT350 system.

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Table of Contents

Rohde & Schwarz: A Legacy of Innovation

Rohde & Schwarz has been a beacon of technological prowess for over 90 years. With three principal divisions—Test & Measurement, Technology Systems, and Networks & Cybersecurity—the company has continually redefined the boundaries of what is technically feasible. From business solutions to public sector applications, Rohde & Schwarz empowers a multitude of industries to achieve technological and digital sovereignty.

Deep Dive into Additive Manufacturing at Rohde & Schwarz

Additive manufacturing (AM), often known as 3D printing, has revolutionized various industries by enabling bespoke and complex designs to be created with unprecedented efficiency. At its Teisnach facility, Rohde & Schwarz harnesses this technology to produce RF components and heat exchangers using the Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) method.

The Role of Post-Processing

Despite the advanced capabilities of 3D printing, post-processing remains an essential step to ensure the final products meet stringent quality standards. The quest for optimal performance necessitates meticulous cleaning and finishing, particularly the depowdering stage. This is where the integration of Solukon’s SFM-AT350 depowdering system comes into play.

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Introducing Solukon’s SFM-AT350 Depowdering System

The SFM-AT350 depowdering system is a marvel of engineering designed to handle medium-sized parts up to 100kg, with dimensions up to 400 x 400 x 400mm or 500 x 280 x 400mm. It’s not just the size and weight capacity that make this system impressive; it is also the efficiency and quality of cleaning it provides.

Key Features

Compact Structure: Ensures low inert gas consumption.
Freedom of Movement: Maximizes the freedom and precision of cleaning components.
High-Quality Cleaning: Features such as adjustable pneumatic vibration and a high-frequency knocker disperse powder clumps effectively.
Digital-Factory-Tool: An optional sensor and interface kit that tracks all relevant data and summarises it in a protocol file for enhanced traceability.

Real-World Application and Benefits

The SFM-AT350 system is more than just a tool; it’s a game-changer for Rohde & Schwarz. Depending on the workload, the system processes two to four cleaning jobs per week, with this frequency expected to increase as 3D printing activities transition into serial production.

Handling Different Materials

Stainless steel and aluminum alloy (AlSi10Mg) parts are primarily processed using this system. Since aluminum is known for being particularly reactive, the SFM-AT350’s chamber is inerted with protective gas before cleaning. This ensures safe and effective depowdering, a crucial step when dealing with reactive materials.

Addressing Depowdering Challenges

One of the significant challenges in additive manufacturing is removing powder from intricate interior channels and support structures. The SFM-AT350 meets this challenge head-on with its adept cleaning capabilities, much to the satisfaction of its users at Rohde & Schwarz.

Feedback from the Front Line

Peter Scherer, Head of Additive Manufacturing at Rohde & Schwarz, has nothing but praise for the system. He describes it as easy to operate with no malfunctions or issues to date. According to Scherer, the short coordination channels with Solukon, a German manufacturer, and the high quality and safe concepts of the system were critical factors in their decision-making process.

Broader Industry Insights

The integration of advanced systems like the SFM-AT350 reflects broader trends and shifts in the additive manufacturing industry. The market for consumer products AM alone generated $2.6 billion in 2023, and it’s expected to skyrocket to $28 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 26.8%.

Market Study Highlights

Consumer Products AM: Expected to significantly grow in the coming decade.
AM Hardware and Materials: Continuous innovations drive efficiency and capabilities.
Medical AM: From implants to bioprinting, medical applications are expanding rapidly.

Conclusion

The integration of Solukon’s SFM-AT350 depowdering system with Rohde & Schwarz’s additive manufacturing process exemplifies how technological advances can optimize production quality and efficiency. This synergy between innovative systems and established manufacturing processes not only reflects current trends but also sets the stage for future advancements in the industry.

Related Industry Updates and Case Studies

NASA’s Acquisition: NASA acquired a C1000 ceramic 3D printer from 3DCeram.
Lehigh University’s New Hub: Establishing a new 3D printing hub to foster innovation.
CTC’s $4.4 Million Contract: CTC awarded a substantial AM contract from AFRL.

Case Studies

Airtech’s Sustainable Practices: Paving the way for more eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
Olympia Express: Using 3D technologies to enhance product quality and efficiency.

Would you be intrigued to see how future integrations and innovations unfold in the additive manufacturing landscape? As the industry continues to grow and evolve, the journey promises to be exciting and full of groundbreaking advancements.

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