IMTS 2024: Large-Format, Robotic Additive Platform Makes Its U.S. Debut
Introducing its robotic large format additive manufacturing (LFAM) platform for the first time at a major U.S. manufacturing tradeshow, Caracol will demonstrate how manufacturers can produce industrial large-scale 3D printed parts with more efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability, thanks to its advanced technology.
Via live on-booth 3D printing with its partner, KUKA, (booth #236807, West Hall), visitors will be able to get an up-close look at the capabilities of LFAM via Caracol's flagship Heron AM integrated AM platform, introduced in 2022. It's a modular hardware-software robotic system that works on 6+ axes to enable manufacturers to produce thermoplastic composite parts with complex geometries and with no scale or shape limits.
The modular components that make up this solution are extruders, robotic arms, printing beds, software, feeding systems, and enclosures.
Extruders:
The extruders process composite fiber-reinforced thermoplastic pellets. According to manufacturing needs, different models are available.
- The High Accuracy (HA) extruder is lightweight and compact to achieve agility, quality finishing, and precision.
- The High Versatility (HV) extruder adapts to diverse needs and a broad range of applications.
- The High Flow (HF) extruder reduces print times and processes an extensive range of materials maintaining high print quality and efficient deposition.
Robotic Arms:
Leveraging the flexibility of the 6+ axes movements, robotic arms allow Heron AM to manufacture parts with very complex geometries, including non-planar tool paths, and unconventional slicing at different angles such as 45 or 60 degrees. Robotics also allows to modularly set up the system with different arm sizes to satisfy specific needs on applications or production areas. Arms can be extended on the x-axis with a rail or on the y-axis adding a plinth. To provide the best automation solution, Heron AM can be set up with robots from KUKA to FANUC and ABB.
Software:
Eidos Manufacturing platform ensures full control and flexibility of the process. With the 3D Path Planning Algorithms, users easily set up the programming of complex tool paths in a few steps. With the IoT platform, it's possible to enhance process quality and repeatability, starting from a data-driven approach that collects and analyzes data from every print.
Printing Beds:
Caracol has several models to fit all needs, customizable in terms of size.
- The aluminum frame structure with interchangeable top panels is a convenient and flexible setup. With a simple brim or raft, it ensures stability throughout the job.
- The simple stainless-steel bed provides high rigidity and planarity, anti-corrosion, and durability.
- The patented automatic bed for unmanned part clamping and unloading guarantees automated production with part stability. The aluminum slats structure allows mechanical gripping of the first layer. Rotating at the end of each cycle and releasing the printed part autonomously, this printing bed is ideal for continuous production.
Feeding System:
The automated material feeding system creates a direct and continuous supply of material. A drying unit is connected to the extruder to input pellets during the whole printing cycle, avoiding manual operations that could stop the machine's job.
Pellets and shreds are stored at the right humidity and temperature and dried for best performance and quality. Its capacity of 110 to 1,76 lb. (50 to 80 kg) can be extended with a direct connection to a bigger storage or with multiple material feeding units, to facilitate production continuity for unlimited hours.
Enclosures:
Customers can opt for different configurations:
Structural Insulated Cells create a completely enclosed and fully climatized environment for high-temperature and high-performance composites.
Mobile Containers are ideal for in-situ manufacturing in remote locations such as construction and offshore sites or when working with low-temperature materials.
Heron AM can operate in open air, at room temperature with safety light curtains or with protective cages such as metal or plexiglass structures.
Caracol
Pflugerville, TX
[email protected]
www.caracol-am.com
