Unveiling a groundbreaking leap in large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM), CMS SpA introduces the CMS Kreator, a pioneering system that marries rapid extrusion with 5-axis milling, setting new benchmarks in production efficiency and precision. Developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology, this advanced technology promises to reshape the manufacturing landscape for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and marine.
Revolutionizing Manufacturing with Hybrid Technology
At the heart of the CMS Kreator’s innovation lies its Screw Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (SEAM) process, enabling the use of thermoplastic granules for faster, more cost-effective production. Unlike traditional 3D printing systems, the CMS Kreator boasts a versatile build volume that can accommodate structures from 3 x 2 x 1 meters up to 10 x 8.5 x 2.5 meters, with extrusion rates ranging from 10 kg/hour to an impressive 100 kg/hour. Its ability to print at angles of 0°, 45°, and 90°, coupled with speeds up to 16 m/min, positions the CMS Kreator as a frontrunner in the LFAM domain.
Optimized Performance and Material Versatility
The introduction of new slicing software represents a significant stride in optimizing printing times and enhancing workflow efficiencies. Moreover, the CMS Kreator’s compatibility with a wide array of thermoplastics and reinforced pellet feedstocks opens doors to unprecedented material versatility. This adaptability is crucial for meeting the specific needs of industries requiring robust, large-scale tooling solutions, thereby minimizing material waste by at least 81% compared to existing technologies.
Setting the Stage for Future Innovations
With plans to showcase its capabilities at JEC World 2024, CMS SpA hints at further innovations in the pipeline. The CMS Kreator not only exemplifies the potential of hybrid LFAM systems to revolutionize industrial manufacturing but also underscores the importance of ongoing research and development in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in additive manufacturing. As industries worldwide strive for greater efficiency and precision, the CMS Kreator stands as a testament to the transformative power of cutting-edge technology.
As the CMS Kreator propels LFAM into new realms of speed and precision, its deployment across critical sectors like aerospace, automotive, and marine is poised to usher in a new era of manufacturing excellence. The collaborative efforts of CMS SpA and the Fraunhofer Institute herald a future where large-scale, complex structures are produced with unprecedented efficiency, showcasing the limitless potential of additive manufacturing.
