voxeljet presents IOB – a groundbreaking cold 3D printing technology

The German voxeljet has presented an innovative 3D printing technology from cold sand called IOB (InOrganic Binding). The new method can be used in the foundry industry to produce molds and cores from sand and an inorganic binder, without the need for microwave treatment.

What makes it different from other binder jetting methods developed by the company is the lack of need to harden the finished 3D print with microwaves, which results in lower technological and operational investment costs. IOB technology offers a number of benefits to the foundry industry, such as the emission of pure water vapor during the casting process instead of harmful gases. This solution reduces the emission of harmful substances and contributes to the improvement of working conditions in foundries.

“The implementation of IOB technology is a key step in the further implementation of printed inorganic binder cores and molds in the foundry industry,” said Dr. Ingo Ederer, CEO of voxeljet. “Our goal is to provide innovative solutions that not only increase efficiency, but also contribute to the sustainable development of the metal casting industry.”

The IOB method enables 3D printing of molds and cores characterized by high precision, excellent detail reproduction and edge sharpness. Unlike hot method processes, which require the process of curing the printed cores by baking the finished 3D prints, voxeljet IOB technology only requires drying of the parts after printing, which takes place outside the 3D printer. The new method can be used on all voxeljet platforms. It is currently being tested and offered on the VX1000 and VX1000S 3D printers, and there are plans to implement it on the VX2000 3D printer.

The use of inorganic binder in the foundry industry – especially in the automotive sector – is becoming more and more popular. Taking into account the growing environmental requirements, it can be predicted that the demand for molds and cores hardened using the IOB method will increase. voxeljet is determined to maintain its leading position in the area of ecological 3D printing processes and through such a strategic approach, significantly contribute to the increase in sales.

Source: www.voxeljet.com