What are the Hybrid Printing and Machining Cells?
Our hybrid manufacturing cell is made up of a robotic mill and a large-scale 3D printer. Large-scale 3D printers are machines capable of producing objects on a significantly larger scale compared to standard desktop 3D printers. These printers are designed to handle larger print volumes, enabling the fabrication of more extensive and more substantial components. Pairing this capability with a large milling robot allows us to manufacture large end-use parts and prototypes out of reinforced polymers and then machining the printed surfaces to achieve smooth surface finishes and fine tolerances. The build envelope of our hybrid cell is 1.2m x 2.6m x 1.3m for hybrid manufacturing, and 2.4 x 2.6 x 1.5 for printing only.
What are the Hybrid Printing and Machining Cells used for in IMR
Large-scale 3D printers, are often used in industrial applications for printing large or complex components. These applications can span various industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction, and more. Large-scale 3D printing is valued for its ability to create prototypes, functional parts, and tooling with reduced material waste and increased design flexibility.
IMR is using this equipment for the creation of tooling for composite moulds and for robotic milling and drilling operations. We are also interested in new applications in the areas of composites for marine applications, bespoke fixturing of large parts, and in architecture and construction.
What products can be created with it
- Composite moulds
- Jigs and fixtures
- Prototype parts and tooling
