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Valmet to adopt 3D printing tech in its manufacturing processes
Dec. 9, 2016 - Valmet says it has become one of the first technology suppliers to the pulp and paper industry to adopt 3D printing technology in its manufacturing processes to shorten lead times.
December 9, 2016 By P&PC Staff
The benefits of 3D printing for pulp and paper mills lie in shorter lead times when a new mold is needed for a customer-specific pattern, says Valmet, adding that it will also be possible to print parts on demand for rapid delivery. According to the company, adopting this new production method means cutting the time to market for new products as well as being able to produce patterns and parts regardless of shape, and tool requirements will no longer present any restrictions.
“3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, is an excellent example of an emerging technology that has huge potential to be exploited widely in Valmet in the future. We have taken a big step towards offering next-generation products without being limited by yesterday’s production processes,” said Ari Saario, R&D director.
At its new 3D Competence Center, which opened earlier this year in Sundsvall, Sweden, the company has used this btechnology to manufacture molding patterns and selected spare parts. The printing materials include aluminum, Inconel and type 316L steel. According to the company, the centre continuously runs trials with various printing materials and explores ideas for products that can be printed with a 3D printer.
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