BMW Group optimizes 3D Printing Processes with Solukon Post-Processing System

The BMW Group has added the advanced SFP770 post-processing system from Solukon to its plant at the Additive Manufacturing Campus in Oberschleissheim. The integration of this system represents an important step towards increasing efficiency in the processing of polyamide prototype components.

The SFP770, a globally unique post-processing system, combines automated unpacking and blasting equipment for surface cleaning and finishing of SLS parts in a single system. It is compatible with the EOS P 770 and FORMIGA 3D printing systems, using adapters for the latter models. The system accommodates the entire exchangeable frame of the 3D printer and therefore offers efficient handling.

The process in the SFP770 involves several steps:

• Loading: The EOS P 770 removable frame is inserted into the system using a pallet truck.
• Unpacking: The frame is closed with a vibration-excited screen lid and swivels overhead to unpack the components. The loose powder is extracted directly.
• Transfer: After unpacking, the sieve lid opens and the components slide into the blasting basket.
• Cleaning: The blasting basket moves towards the blasting unit and begins to rotate. The cleaning process with glass bead blasting and ionized air runs fully automatically.

“Because so many process parameters can be programmed, the SFP770 achieves the best cleaning results, regardless of the component material and without manual intermediate steps. Our system also offers the advantage that components of different shapes and sizes can be cleaned simultaneously,” says Andreas Hartmann, CEO and CTO of Solukon, summarizing the key benefits of the post-processing system for plastic components.

The SFP770 can completely unpack and clean a fully-loaded interchangeable frame with 150 liters of build space in just 30 minutes, which makes it particularly attractive for companies with a high component throughput. Due to these advantages, the Additive Manufacturing Campus decided to integrate the system.

This significantly increases flexibility in the post-processing of prototypes. “The SFP770 is the ideal cleaning and unpacking station, especially for companies with a very high component throughput. It can completely unpack and clean a fully loaded removable frame with 150 liters of build space in just 30 minutes and can therefore handle several jobs a day,” says Andreas Hartmann.

Since the SFP770 was unveiled at Formnext Connect in 2020, the system has established itself on the market. The delivery to the BMW Group and the successful commissioning of the second system by a pilot customer further underlines the importance of the SFP770 for the industry.