Vader Systems, Buffalo, New York, USA, an innovator in liquid metal 3D printing that builds 3D metal printing machines for manufacturers and researchers, has announced the first commercial sale of its signature Mk1 3D printer to BECKER CAD-CAM-CAST. BECKER is a tier one supplier of engineered aluminium automotive components from Germany.
Vader’s Mk1 Additive Manufacturing system
Vader’s patented MagnetoJet technology melts metal wire and produces on-demand, precision droplets of molten aluminium. The company claims that the process will produce 3D printed parts faster and with reduced operational costs in comparison to process that uses metal powder. The process is also claimed to be safer and it offers easier material sourcing.
Since, Vader’s technology uses standard aluminium wire, the Mk1 can bring down material cost ten-fold. MagnetoJet also can directly print dense parts without post-processing. Vader currently prints with 4043 aluminium, while 6061 and 7075 aluminium alloys are under development.
Zachary Vader, Chief Innovation Officer and Co-founder of Vader Systems said, “An important part of my vision in developing this technology was to impact the automotive industry. I’m thrilled that a company of Becker’s caliber has recognised this potential and is choosing to integrate the Mk1 into their manufacturing process.”
BECKER has core competencies in engineering, casting and additive manufacturing of aluminium automotive components that range from powertrains to other elite applications.
Scott Vader, President and Co-founder, added, “We are excited that our liquid metal 3D printing process will be used to enhance the exceptional value Becker already delivers to its customers, and we look forward to a long and productive collaboration with the Becker team.”
According to Becker’s CEO Michael Becker, Vader’s 3D printing technology would be a game changer for cost-effective, low-volume production of automotive aluminium components.
Mk1 system will be applied to BECKER’s manufacturing process at the company’s Michigan, plant in Q1 2018. The company plans to add a second system at their Germany plant in late 2018.
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