After successful implementation of the PECM technology, the trend-setting 3D metal printing technology has now entered WTN.
With the help of 3D metal printing, also known as “additive manufacturing,” complex components – which convince due to their lower weight and greater functional scope – can be produced within a very short time.
You send us your requirements, and we produce your prototypes and serial parts. Taking our wide range of manufacturing processes into account, we always look for the optimum and most cost-effective manufacturing option for you.
Process sequence
1. Process preparation
We offer you a continuous process chain: from consulting and design to additive manufacturing, including various finishing options and the finished component.
- Component production within the shortest time
- Implementation of complex three-dimensional geometries (structural design, undercuts, cooling systems, grid structures, bionic structures)
- Manufacturing of workpieces that cannot be produced conventionally
- Weight reduction through internal grid structures or component optimisation
- Combination of several individual parts into an assembly
- Most cost-effective production option for the customer
- Combination of functionalities in a single printed part
2. Selective laser melting (SLM) method
In selective laser melting, the metal to be processed is applied in powder form in a thin layer on a base plate. The powdery metal is completely remelted by laser radiation and forms a solid material layer after solidification. After solidification, the base plate is lowered by the amount of one layer thickness and metal powder is applied again. This cycle is repeated until all layers are remelted and the part is finished. Afterwards, the additively produced component is freed from excess powder and reworked if necessary.
3. Post-processing
The functional surfaces of the 3D metal print components can then be reworked using all common metal processing methods:
- CNC turning
- CNC milling
- CNC grinding
- HSC milling
- Wire EDM
- Die-sinking EDM
- PECM method
- Quality assurance
4. Refinement
We also offer you the following finishing options:
- Blasting
- Coating
- Heat treatment
- Flow/ultrasonic polishing
- Customer-specific laser inscription
- AERO LAP method
- Electrolytic polishing
- Herding
Application examples
Internal cooling systems or lubrication systems
Sleeve
- Optimum lubricating effect for components possible
- Service life increase through process optimisation
- Internal, near-contour cooling channels
- Channels from 0.5 mm diameter possible
Manufactured from 1.2709
Weight reduction by means of topology optimisation (support structures)
Mounting fixture
- Weight saving of approx. 2.5 kg per fixture
- Folded open and closed approx. 700 times a day
- 1.75t less weight per day to be moved
Made of 1.4404 / plastic
Implementation of complex three-dimensional geometries
- Material savings (no machining waste)
- Reduction of assemblies
- 50 % cost reduction
- No design restrictions
- Field of vision optimisation
Flywheel
Manufactured from 1.2709
Gripper arm for robot
Manufactured from AMPO M789 stainless steel (thermosetting)
Gear wheels
Manufactured from AMPO M789 stainless steel (thermosetting)
Chain link
- Density up to 99.9%
- Full mechanical properties
- Direct manufacturing from CAD data
- Prototypes and models produced simply and quickly
- Production of highly complex components without limitation of form or function
Manufactured from 1.2709
