In collaboration with Nuremberg University of Applied Sciences, KL TECHNIK has developed an additive manufacturing process for processing two-component silicones (LSR). The prototype presented under the name “FlexSiliconAdditive” enables the layer-by-layer construction of components with commercially available LSR materials – including highly viscous variants that are usually used in injection molding. A patent application has been filed for the process, which specifically addresses the requirements of industrial development and pre-series production.
The special feature of the system lies in the use of the original materials from subsequent series production. This means that prototypes can not only be produced with identical materials, but also tested under realistic conditions. For development departments, this shortens the time between design and validated functional model.
“The process closes a gap between additive prototyping and near-series silicone processing. Our customers receive functional samples made from exactly the same material that will later be used in production,” explains Gunter Kadegge, Managing Director at KL TECHNIK.
Technologically, the system is based on a Cartesian 3D printer with a special extruder and a modified dosing unit system. The silicone components are fed separately via standard cartridges, combined in a mixing module and then applied in layers. A hot air module is used for curing, which is guided along the contour of each layer. In order to achieve consistent drying results, a so-called sacrificial part is created parallel to the component, which initiates the same movement of the hot air system.
An integrated switchover logic prevents unwanted material escaping in the event of pressure interruptions or retractions. This means that even complex geometries with overhangs can be reproducibly produced. Initial applications are emerging in areas such as medical technology, electronics and sealing systems. KL TECHNIK is currently looking for partners for pilot projects, license cooperations and production orders on a small series scale.
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