Desktop Metal, a global leader in Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies, has released a video highlighting how the BMW Group employs ExOne binder jet 3D printers for the serial production of powertrain components.
The use of binder jet 3D printing for casting applications is a sustainable choice, with advantages like reduced waste, cost-efficiency, and flexibility in materials. It aligns with efforts to minimize environmental impact and reduce emissions.
BMW and ExOne, a brand under Desktop Metal, have collaborated for over two decades on various project developments. The automaker currently utilizes four ExOne Exerial binder jet 3D printing systems to produce water jacket cores for metalcasting in serial production. These systems operate continuously at high speeds, with two more slated for delivery. The setup includes a microwave, a desanding station, and a fully automated conveyor system, ensuring high-accuracy parts.
The key points to be noted from this video release are:
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Desktop Metal's ExOne digital casting brand manufactures binder jet 3D printers for sand castings.
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BMW Landshut uses a fleet of four ExOne 3D printers for serial production of cores made with inorganic compounds that produce no aromas or emissions.
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Binder injection technology from ExOne enables the delivery of complex designs for cast aluminum powertrain components.
Binder jetting is employed in this process, where an industrial printhead deposits a binder selectively into a bed of powder materials, creating a solid part layer by layer. For sand casting, the sand part is removed and used in a mold package for casting molten metal. This technology is favored for its speed, minimal waste, cost-efficiency, and material flexibility, making it an environmentally sustainable production method.
The partnership showcases how advanced manufacturing technologies, like binder jet 3D printing, are used to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the production of critical automotive components. The technology's ability to produce parts with high accuracy at high speeds makes it a valuable asset in the automotive manufacturing process.
About Desktop Metal
Desktop Metal is at the forefront of Additive Manufacturing 2.0 in a new era characterized by on-demand, digital mass production of industrial, medical, and consumer goods. Its innovative 3D printers, software, and materials suite are engineered to meet the speed, cost efficiency, and part quality demands inherent to this transformative shift. Its systems can 3D print various materials, including polymer, metal, ceramics, foam, sand, and recycled wood. It streamlines operations, minimizes waste, reduces costs, enhances adaptability, and brings designs that tackle some of the intricate challenges to life.