Fraunhofer IAPT To Conduct Feasability Testing on 3D Printed Silicone Seals
The Fraunhofer Institute for Additive Production Technologies (IAPT) is known for its sustainable innovations in additive manufacturing. Now, the group is studying sealing technology and offering opportunities for industry members to participate. Seals are important components in mechanical engineering, the chemical industry and the automotive sector. Accordingly, sealing technology refers to the technologies and processes used to manufacture seals. These are normally produced using traditional manufacturing processes, but these processes can be implemented faster, more flexibly and more economically with 3D printing. So, Fraunhofer IAPT is conducting a feasibility study on approaches for silicone seal production with additive manufacturing.
The goal of this ten-month study is to discover whether additively manufactured silicone seals meet the industry’s mechanical properties and chemical resistance requirements. Tests will be carried out to identify suitable materials and technologies, with a focus on material validation. These tests include surface quality concerning roughness and functionality, design freedoms and hard-soft connections. Then, they will assess the benefits of additive manufacturing as a supplement to traditional manufacturing processes. In addition, the study will highlight the possibilities and limitations of 3D printing for the processing of silicone and at the same time provide an overview of the available technologies and materials.
(Credit: Catharina Clemens, Fraunhofer IAPT)
The study is intended to provide the industry with valuable insights for future sealing technology. Furthermore, the research aims to leverage the advantages of 3D printing, which should enable more cost-effective tool production and more complex seal geometries. Another advantage would be the potential for decentralized production and independence from supply chains for seal supply. For companies that have to react quickly to market changes, or implement specific customer requests in small batches, participation in the study may be particularly worthwhile. Using a crowdfunding model with participants, Fraunhofer will integrate specific industrial questions. For now, we will wait for the study’s results. Find more information on the project HERE.
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*Cover photo credit: Catharina Clemens, Fraunhofer IAPT
