Die FH Joanneum in Graz is expanding its AM infrastructure with a BigRep ALTRA 280, thereby deepening research into process stability, lightweight construction, and material development. The industrial-grade high-temperature printer with a large build volume addresses applications where full-scale, function-integrated components and reproducible process control are required. The cooperation with BigRep is designed for interdisciplinary projects of the institutes for Aviation, Production Sciences, and Automotive Engineering, aiming for validated parameter windows from design through post-processing.
Technically, the ALTRA 280 relies on a thermally encapsulated build chamber, precise temperature control, and an open material system. This makes the platform suitable for polymer classes ranging from flame-retardant ABS-FR to carbon-fiber-filled types such as PA12-CF, and up to high-temperature plastics like PEKK and PEI9085. In addition to producing near-functional components—such as airflow elements, interior structural parts, or tooling—the profiling of new filaments is part of the program.
“With the BigRep ALTRA 280, we can manufacture complex functional components at full scale while investigating processes, materials, and lightweight structures under realistic conditions,” explains Prof. Wagner. “This creates the basis for making large-format additive manufacturing even more stable and economical.”
The focus is on three work paths: first, scaling robust process parameters to reduce scrap, cycle times, and unit costs in industrial environments. Second, functional lightweight design with topology optimization and geometries tailored to fluid dynamics, where part stiffness and mass are evaluated using validated metrics. Third, material qualification, including flame-retardancy and temperature-resistance tests as well as mechanical characterization for the aerospace and automotive supply chain.
“We’re delighted to have FH JOANNEUM as a partner that connects research and practice so closely,” says Thomas Janics-Jakomini of BigRep. “This collaboration shows how large-format industrial 3D printing is becoming a true driver of innovation in production and material development for aerospace, automotive, and even food technology.”
The initiative is intended to cover the path from application-oriented testing to small-series production, including process verification, documentation, and transferability to production lines.
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