Abstract
In case of small-batch production, applications of classic technologies and tools, for e.g. injection moulding and classic moulds are not competitive. Application of additive technologies (AT) for direct production of finally parts can partially reduce deficiencies of classic approach, but there are for e.g. limited number of available materials. Potential solution is application of AT in production of so called bridge moulds for small-batch production from originally requested material for final part. This paper presents PolyJet process of AT and its possible application for production of bridge polymer moulds for injection moulding of small quantity of the moulded parts together with design rules for PolyJet bridge moulds.
Highlights
Modern markets define increased demands on development and production processes
As a part of megatrends linked with global increasing of human population, and which is highlighted in some segments of global market, is abandoning of mass production and transition to small-batch or even one piece production, leading to changes in production paradigm [1]
For the utilisation of additive manufacturing advantages, possible solution of the mentioned problems can be found in the application of additive manufacturing for production of so-called bridge moulds, which enable production of small series products from original materials with original production processes
Summary
Modern markets define increased demands on development and production processes. Besides demands on increased product quality, flexibility level in development and production processes, at the same time there are demands on decreasing costs and specially on reducing time for development and production. As a part of megatrends linked with global increasing of human population, and which is highlighted in some segments of global market, is abandoning of mass production and transition to small-batch or even one piece (personalised, custom) production, leading to changes in production paradigm [1] For fulfilling such demands on the market, since 1980’s additive production (3D printing) processes are in constant development. Main characteristic of this processes is adding material mostly layer-by-layer until production of the final product, based only upon 3D CAD product models, without any need for additional tools (like in case of subtractive or forming processes). The paper presents PolyJet process of production bridge moulds, specificity of their production and advantages of their application in practise
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