With the launch of its additive manufacturing equipment at K2022 last year, KraussMaffei joined the select ranks of machinery manufacturers able to offer complete and integrated solutions covering the entire process chain. In this case, the chain now extends from PCR compounding and subsequent 3D printing of components, as well as film and sheet extrusion.
The company will be exhibiting a bar-height table that has been 3D-printed by the powerPrint large-format 3D printer introduced last October. The materials used to print the table were recompounded pellets based on post-consumer waste plastics. The tabletop was also made from recycled material.
The pellets were recompounded using a KM ZE BluePower twin-screw extruder. Direct processing of the pellets made in the compounding line eliminates the need for filament production, which not only enhances process flexibility but also results in a more cost-effective and sustainable process.
The powerPrint features a closed, thermally insulated enclosure, making for reliable printing and the efficient production of near-net-shape components. As an extrusion-based system, the powerPrint allows the use of raw materials at temperatures of up to 400°C.
The tabletop, also made from recycled materials, is in fact a 5 mm thick floor covering manufactured on an in-line compounding and laminating line. Because of its mono-material structure, this floor covering can be easily recycled again. The laminated decorative film is made of pure PP, the core sheet of the table top consists of PP with a chalk content of as high as 80%.
KraussMaffei produces and supplies the full range of machinery used in the production of the table.