2023-10-22 22:02:00
The Belgian startup Valcun presents the Minerva 3D metal printer at Formnext. The first machine has been sold to Sirris, the Belgian research institute for the metal industry. Valcun has developed its own technology, Molten Metal Deposition, which is primarily used for aluminum and is particularly interesting for SME metal companies for several reasons.
Jonas Galle, CEO senior Someone, is enthusiastic about the partnership with Sirris. “Their expertise in technology research and development perfectly complements the groundbreaking capabilities of our Minerva Printer and its MMD technology. Together we want to push the boundaries of what is feasible in the world of Advanced Manufacturing.”
Ideal thanks to simple feedstock
Valcun has been working for several years on the development of an easy-to-use 3D metal printer for small and medium-sized businesses in the manufacturing industry. The Belgian company’s technology, Molten Metal Deposition, uses aluminum wire as feedstock and is similar to FFF, but with metal. MMD is a single step technology: the parts are immediately suitable for further processing and therefore do not need to be sintered first, as with 3D printing with filled filament. Valcun’s Minerva printer uses standard aluminum wire as material. Other materials will be added to the portfolio in the future.
Lower entry threshold for the industry
It will also be possible to 3D print with aluminum alloys from the 6xxx and 7xxx series, materials with higher strength. Jonas Galle identifies this as an important advantage. “Most millers we talk to say they don’t want powder in their factory. Our machine can stand next to the milling machine. That lowers the entry barrier for the industry.”
Joint research by Valcun and Sirris
The Minerva 3D printer opens up new industrial applications, from structural components to heat exchangers, offering a deployable, user-friendly and sustainable production solution. The cost-effectiveness appeals to a wide range of industries looking to embrace aluminum AM. Valcun and Sirris are joining forces in research projects to further develop MMD technology, with the aim of addressing specific industrial challenges and unlocking additional value for the industry.
The official premiere of the Belgian 3D metal printer will take place at Formnext. In the upcoming edition of Solutions Magazine, which will be published in early November, you can read an interview with Jonas Galle about the development of the 3D metal printer.
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