A supplier of industrial 3D printing solutions, EOS has helped Atlas Copco move to an in-house polymer-based AM (Additive Manufacturing) process.
Atlas Copco manufactures compressors, vacuum solutions, generators, pumps, power tools, and assembly systems for multiple industries. The company has been introducing 3D printing in-house to reduce customer lead times and enhance agility.
“AM has been transformative for us. We’re winning new contracts worldwide because we can supply directly, at a lower cost, and with short lead times. In EOS, we have a partner that has supported us throughout our transition, offers us rapid support, and continues to advise us on designing components to achieve the best result with our 3D printer.” Jason Edwards, Technical Manager at Atlas Copco.
The 3D printing initiative at Atlas Copco was initiated with a sprint project that focused on using 3D printing in-house for electric vehicle parts. The company has already designed and produced over 70 types of self-piercing rivets, associated tooling, and equipment for a range of automotive manufacturers.
The objective was to wield tighter control on the manufacturing process to enjoy shorter lead times. The collaboration with EOS and Additive Minds (a consulting unit of EOS) on a turnkey solution provided an impetus to serial production using 3D printing. This offered the company’s customers the possibility to customize their production lifecycle.
One example of a key application includes a spool carrier, which was previously a casting that had to be machined and assembled. The new design is now a single printed component, considerably lighter, and costs less to manufacture.
The choice of EOS P 396 mid-size 3D printer was based on its dimensional accuracy, flexibility, and ability to deliver ideal mechanical properties. The DyeMansion DM60 coloring solution was harnessed to facilitate colored powder coating.
An iterative prototyping process is being used at Atlas Copco to develop new products and transition its product inventory. With support for support 26 parameter sets and 14 materials, relying on the EOS P 396 3D printer enables Atlas Copco to reduce its environmental impact as less transport is required to produce and deliver final components. It can control production schedules by being more agile.
“This project shows how important trust and collaboration are between all parties if a company is to embark on such a dramatic change to its core manufacturing business. No company should feel that it cannot transition to AM, and EOS helps organizations to ensure success through strong communication, cooperation, and a unified team spirit,” said Nathan Rawlings, Sales Manager at EOS UK.
Author: Nagarjun M
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