As a leading provider and user of Industry 4.0, TRUMPF is transferring its digitalization solutions to its TruPrint series of 3D printers to optimize additive manufacturing processes.
To enable connected manufacturing the TRUMPF, TruPrint 3D printers are linked to a manufacturing execution system (MES) and a smart ordering platform. This gives employees mobile, real-time access to the printers’ process data and pending orders and facilitates planning and paperless management of production, which boosts transparency, flexibility and ultimately also manufacturing productivity.
TRUMPF has access to beam sources and equipment for 3D printing
To establish additive technologies in industrial manufacturing, TRUMPF focuses on ensuring that its systems are highly reliable and efficient. “Otherwise, 3D printing methods can’t compete with conventional technologies such as milling and casting,” says Thomas Fehn, TRUMPF General Manager Additive Manufacturing.
TRUMPF brings more than 50 years of experience in machine tools to the table. As one of the few manufacturers of 3D printing systems, TRUMPF offers everything under one roof: laser beam sources, optics and machines. “We have everything you need for 3D printing. This is highly advantageous when industrializing these processes because we have access to the technologies that best fit our customers’ needs,” explains Fehn.
In order to fully utilize and mass produce 3D printers, the systems must be automated. It is precisely for this reason that the new TruPrint 5000 has an automated process start, which reduces manual activities when employees prepare the system for printing. This saves time and improves both quality and productivity in additive manufacturing.
Leading position worldwide for small-format machines
Since 2017 TRUMPF has seen an increase in orders received for its 3D printing systems. Leading the pack is the TruPrint 1000, its small-format machine base is currently the best-selling system worldwide. The company also reports growing demand for its high-performance TruPrint 5000.