In recent years, large format 3D printing technology has become one of the rapidly developing trends in the industry. The technology promises to revolutionize the way manufacturers produce large-scale products, and its accuracy, speed and versatility make 3D printing an ideal solution for large-scale product production. One such large-format 3D printing startup is Italian company REV3RD, which is developing large-scale additive manufacturing solutions while keeping sustainability in mind.
△A chair 3D printed using EVO 3D's particle 3D printing system. Photo via EVO 3D
The first step in REV3RD's development of large-format 3D printing technology is to design 1x1m printers one by one. However, they need to focus on extruders that are not limited in the amount of material extruded over time. This is where the RD-M10+ extruder was born, with an extrusion speed of up to 12 kg/h, then the RD-M25 and finally the RD-M40 capable of extruding up to 40 kg/h. The advantage of using this type of extruder is that it can be mounted on an existing gantry machine or robotic arm and can be designed and customized in terms of weight, power, material to be processed, dimensions and sensors.
Finally, REV3RD created the RD-HUGE, a printer with a work area of approximately 3×2.5m that can be used to test the feasibility of large format printing. It is a Cartesian three-axis machine with a cantilever that can be used for different applications in different sectors: in the arts for the production of furniture elements, sculptures or movie sets; in the automotive and energy sectors for the production of molds for the manufacture of carbon fiber laminated parts ;Finally, the aerospace, shipping and marine transport sectors are also very interested in this machine.
The RV3RD extruder can process virgin and recycled and/or recyclable polymers, standard or high-performance thermoplastics, and even fiber-filled (e.g. ABS + carbon or glass fiber) materials. In addition, REV3RD has also applied for related patents on continuous fiber co-extrusion technology.
△One of REV3RD's large format additive manufacturing solutions
Importance of Production System Automation in 3D Printing
The development of automated systems for 3D printing is a very interesting topic that can optimize production processes and give those who rely on this technology a better return on investment. Currently, 3D printing is still at a TRL (Technology Readiness Level) of 6, but more complete automation could improve this parameter. If the goal is to mass-produce products with complex geometries, the production process lacks sensors and control parameters that would bring the deposition process closer to human motion and control "perfect synergy". That's why REV3RD invests in the development, monitoring and control of the printing process.
The main advantages and disadvantages of 3D printing of robotic arms
Robotic arms are a relatively mature mechanical system that have been used for many years in fields as diverse as welding or painting. So, given its widespread availability, it's easy to find, even at a relatively low price. In addition, the control of more than 6 degrees of freedom makes the movement more flexible. However, it still creates some nasty control issues, which aren't much of a problem for Cartesian machines. Another disadvantage of robotic arms is that they are certainly less precise systems if dimensional tolerances with high material removal rates are required.
△REV3RD uses a robotic arm in its system
How REV3RD addresses sustainability and the circular economy
The core purpose of REV3RD brand creation can be explained as follows: the circular concept given by the Italian word "verde" (green) and the English prefix "Re-" constitutes the name and spirit of the brand. They believe that 3D printing and sustainability go hand in hand for two main reasons: first, additive manufacturing is inherently a more sustainable production process than traditional subtractive manufacturing processes; waste is significantly reduced because 3D printing is only depositional The material required for the object. This is a significant advantage. Furthermore, in today's world of pollution, waste disposal and waste, the ability to print objects using recycled and recyclable materials is an added value. If eliminating plastic from the planet is a utopian ideal, recycling it and giving it new life through 3D printing is a real possibility.
△REV3RD's concept of sustainable development
In the future, REV3RD will continue to develop new functions to improve sales products, and plans to hire talents to build a space for production, testing, research, and experimentation.
