Arburg launches additive manufacturing system

Arburg launched Freeformer, which introduces a new process for additive manufacturing. The Arburg Plastic Freeforming (AKF) system demonstrates an unknown degree of freedom in the production of plastic products. Herbert Kraibühler, Managing Director Technology & Engineering, stressed the many benefits of Arburg’s new products at a pre-K2013 press conference. 

The Freeformer enables functional parts to be produced in smaller batches mould free with standard granulate since it layers droplets of liquid plastic and that results in components’ strength be reinforced for approximately 70% to 80% as compared with conventional counterparts produced by common injection moulded plastic parts. Accordingly, this results in fully functional components.

Aside from the new machines and new process for additive manufacturing for small unit volumes in high quality on offer, Arburg also introduced equipment for large unit volumes for high component quality through its Allrounder range. The new large electric allrounder 820 A features a clamping force of 4,000 kN and a size 2100 injection unit, which indicates that the electric Alldrive and the hybrid Hidrive are available in a clamping force range from 350 to 5,000 kN and the large Allrounders are now available in all sizes in all drive versions, from hydraulic to hybrid and to electric. The high speed production capability: 48 teaspoons in 4.5 seconds, is a sparkling point of the machine, which reduces the cycle time by 38%.

In keeping with market trends, Michael Hehl, Managing Partner and spokesperson for the management team, presents the ongoing investments of the company. In 2013, Arburg established one warehouse that enables reduction of delivery times for Asian customers, allowing Arburg to adapt the Allrounder machines built in Lossburg directly to customer requirements locally. Further, in Maxico, Arburg relocated their location facility to Querétaro and add new premises, offering subsidiary a bigger space. In Poland, Arburg started the construction and it is expected to be completed by the end of 2014.

The company will be building again in Lossburg in 2014. the new two storey extension will have a usable area around 18,600 m2 and that will increase Arburg’s production and assembly capacity. The entire area of the headquarter in Lossburg will be increased by about 13% to almost 165,000 m2.