The technology could potentially replace some milling and casting practices in the future.

The joint venture with Italy’s biggest laser manufacturer Sisma is aimed at developing a robust and productive 3D printer for mass production of metal components.

Trumpf has entered a joint venture in additive manufacturing with Italy’s biggest laser manufacturer Sisma S.p.A., with both partners bringing expertise, human resources and capital to the joint venture.

Sisma has a 45 percent stake in the new enterprise while Trumpf has a 55 percent interest. Trumpf Sisma S.r.l. is based in Piovene Rocchette near Vicenza, Italy. Trumpf and Sisma plan to co-develop latest generation production systems for the 3D printing of metal components at this location.

The technology known as ‘additive manufacturing’ enables any component to be built up directly from a 3D design program.

The parts are created layer by layer from metallic powder, using the power of the laser. The technology has the potential to partially replace methods such as milling or casting. The components are as durable and long-lasting as their conventionally produced counterparts.

Today, companies from the most diverse sectors are replacing conventional methods by qualifying components and products for additive manufacturing. In response, Trumpf is working on rapid entry into this market – at its headquarters in Ditzingen as well as together with Sisma.

“Many machines on the market today are aimed more at prototype construction,” explains Dr. Peter Leibinger, head of Trumpf Laser Technology. “In the future, however, the most important criterion where additive manufacturing lines are concerned will be their suitability for industrial applications.”

Sisma began development work on an additive manufacturing machine for the production of small metallic components several years ago and brings this expertise to the joint venture.

With annual sales of 33 million euros and around 1,000 laser devices sold each year, Sisma is the biggest laser manufacturer in Italy. The company has around 130 employees and more than 50 years of experience in precision mechanics and industrial automation. The target markets of this innovative laser and systems supplier are primarily jewellery, fashion, dental and industry.

Trumpf originally entered the additive manufacturing sector in the year 2000, however, they are now beginning to increase their efforts.

For further details contact Retecon on TEL: 011 976 8600 or visit www.retecon.co.za