3D printer for technical ceramics
3D printed ceramic components are in demand on the market, but there are only a few 3D printers that meet the high component requirements. Therefore, ZHAW developed a prototype of a 3D ceramic printer based on microextrusion with subsequent sintering.
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Today, there is a wide range of 3D printers for additive production of plastic and metal parts. Ceramic components are also in demand on the market, but there are only a few 3D printers that meet the high component requirements. In an interdisciplinary development project, a prototype of a 3D ceramic printer was developed at the ZHAW with the participation of the ZPP (Centre for Product and Process Development), IMPE (Institute of Material and Process Engineering) and IMS (Institute for Mechatronic Systems).
The printing principle is based on a combination of micro-extrusion and FDM Fused Deposition Modeling.
Constructive work (ZPP)
Redesign and construction of a printhead
Integration in a 3-axis system
Control, regulation, programming (IMS)
Controlling the printer
Implementation heating, power transmission, pressure control
Material development (IMPE)
Preparation of Al2O3, ZrO2 and SiC composites
Print parameter studies (p, T, V, ...)
Debinding / sintering procedure for ceramics production
