Stratasys Optimizes Post-Processing at Its 3D Printing Center with New S1 System from AM Solutions

3D printing specialist Stratasys is implementing a new automated post-processing system at its Additive Manufacturing Center in Rheinmünster, Germany. With the S1 from AM Solutions – a brand of the Rösler Group – the company aims to significantly enhance the efficiency and quality of its additive manufacturing operations. For the first time, the system combines cleaning and surface finishing in a single process step, reducing both processing time and required floor space.

At the Stratasys Technology Center, components are produced for customers in the automotive, medical, aerospace, and defense industries. Post-processing plays a key role, particularly for parts produced using the Selective Absorption Fusion (SAF) process. This powder-based additive manufacturing technology enables high-volume polymer production but requires precise and repeatable post-processing to ensure consistent surface quality.

“While the printing process itself is already highly automated, many post-processing steps remain time-consuming and partly manual. Automated solutions make it possible to standardize these processes, reduce lead times, and ensure consistently high, reproducible quality,” explains Dennis Kronimus, Additive Manufacturing Center Manager, Stratasys EMEA.

“Thanks to the S1, we can now perform cleaning and surface finishing in a single cycle using just one media – previously we needed two separate systems for this. As a result, we have significantly increased the efficiency of our SAF post-processing, achieving a 25% time savings along with better surface finishes. Furthermore, the system requires considerably less floor space – an important factor in our technology center, which houses numerous machines,” says Dennis Kronimus.

Instead of conventional glass beads, the system uses so-called Polybeads, which are more durable and produce a more uniform surface texture. The process is complemented by an integrated media preparation unit featuring a cyclone, filters, and screening systems that separate blasting media from excess powder, thereby reducing maintenance requirements.

In addition to the S1, Stratasys in Rheinmünster also uses the C1 and PowderEase T1 systems from AM Solutions, which handle automated unpacking and powder processing tasks, among others.

Commenting on the deepening partnership, David Soldan, Head of AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology, states: “We are very pleased that our successful collaboration with Stratasys – which began with the development and implementation of the PowderEase T1 and the adoption of the C1 – has now been further strengthened with the integration of the S1. For us, this is a strong sign of mutual trust and proof that two companies with the highest quality standards can together achieve real progress in industrial additive manufacturing.”