Upgraded industrial 3D printers support continuous fiber capabilities

At JEC World 2024, booth 6U42, Endless Industries (Berlin, Germany) will be displaying an array of printed parts that demonstrate the abilities of its 3D printing solution for continuous fiber composite parts. Additionally, the company will be showing its proprietary print head, C250-3k-1.0, that is capable of printing 3K fibers, and an upgraded desktop 3D printer demonstrating the ease of integrating the printhead.

Endless Industries integrates its own printhead, software and fiber filaments into industrial 3D printers, delivering reliable machinery to address diverse challenges faced by customers. Endless Industries partners with global industrial 3D printer manufacturers, to ensure these customers receive printers that suit their needs and budgets. The first printers will be available Q3 2024.

The company’s primary objective is to empower industrial companies to leverage the potential of fiber-reinforced composites within a seamlessly automated production process. Endless Industries enables customers to print robust yet lightweight parts for the development of sturdy jigs and fixtures, long-lasting robot grippers or heavy-duty prototypes. This approach enables customers to capitalize on the material's strength while achieving a reduction in overall weight for critical mechanical components. The best applications are currently found in the automotive, medical and aerospace industries.

Additionally, Endless Industries seeks close collaborations with universities and research institutes worldwide to further the development of innovative applications with a focus on sustainable materials.

One notable feature behind the fully automated process solution offered by Endless is the software, which is said to grant users complete control over the fiber paths (including fiber direction) within the part. This capability simplifies the definition of part characteristics, all within an intuitive and user-friendly package. Additionally, strategically placing fibers and determining where not to place them can significantly reduce overall part costs.

The Berlin-based fiber production also gives companies the chance to use 3K fibers in combination with different matrix materials. Given its high strength, carbon fiber filaments currently take center stage as the primary focus. However, Endless Industries also provides glass fibers as an alternative option.