Sauber Motorsport relies on C1 Max from AM Solutions for more efficient SLA 3D print post-processing

Since February, Sauber Motorsport has been using a C1 Max from AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology, which has been specially adapted to the requirements of the racing team, to post process SLA printed parts. The new system, which was developed in close partnership between the two companies, is also compatible with the SLA 750 series and offers advantages in terms of efficiency, surface quality and work safety.

The 3D-printed components are used in the wind tunnel for Formula 1 tests and must meet the highest standards of precision and surface quality. At peak times, for example from October to February, the team processes around 1,000 parts per week.

“In the past, we had to carry out many steps manually for chemical post-processing in the SLA area,” explains Vitor Sousa, Head of AM Plastic & CNC for AM at Sauber Motorsport, ”with a number of seven printers, this not only took a lot of time, but was also very stressful for the employees who had to work with the solvents. We have now been using two C1 Max from AM Solutions since February and are extremely satisfied.”

Thanks to the new technology, post-processing time has been reduced by 50 percent. The C1 Max is based on the C1 concept, but has been adapted for the use of larger build platforms. The components are immersed in a treatment tank filled with a special, temperature-controlled processing agent via an automatically lowerable platform.

“This saves us a lot of time. We used to need a whole day to rework the products from our seven machines. Today, half a day is enough,” explains Sousa. “Rejects are also reduced to a minimum, the surfaces are of a much higher quality and require much less effort for further post-processing.”

An integrated flow system ensures that the parts are treated evenly, while a mesh basket prevents components from being damaged. The interplay of chemical, thermal and mechanical processes enables the gentle removal of support structures, which previously had to be carried out manually at great expense.

In addition, the C1 Max uses a specially developed, more environmentally friendly process agent that improves occupational safety. The system allows employees to work without respiratory protection and facilitates the disposal of the medium, which is drained via a pump when saturated. The system was dimensioned so that complete 3D Systems ProX 800 and SLA 750 construction panels can be processed.

“Formula 1 is the premier class of motorsport, which is why we operate at the highest technical limit. Safe and efficient processes are crucial for us and with the C1 Max we have once again taken a big step in this direction,” summarizes Sousa.