EOS launches ‘Can I 3D Print This?’ online tool for Additive Manufacturing
July 27, 2023
EOS North America, the American division of EOS GmbH, along with its Additive Minds applied engineering group, has launched an online analysis tool called ‘Can I 3D Print This?.’ The tool is designed to enable organisations that are exploring Additive Manufacturing to input application information into a user-friendly platform and generate reports that help answer the titular question.
The tool is suitable for both metal and polymer Additive Manufacturing and provides freedom and independent inquiry for those assessing the viability of Laser Bean Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) industrial Additive Manufacturing for production.
Can I 3D Print This? leverages user-provided information about their current manufacturing method(s) and part design file. Once input, a comprehensive analysis is generated, including cost estimation, predicted production time, a recommended EOS AM system, and recommended material. After the analysis is complete, a report is generated and provided for download. The analysis also includes multiple comparisons of cost-per-part (CPP), production timeline, and material usage when manufacturing with Additive Manufacturing rather than traditional processes.
If desired, Can I 3D Print This? can also establish a direct collaboration with Additive Minds, the consulting unit of EOS.
Each custom application analysis report is said to include:
- Application geometry analysis
- Recommended AM system and material
- Matched material qualities in comparison to current application material
- Financial break-even and production time analysis in comparison to current manufacturing method
- CPP comparison to current manufacturing process and product life cycle
- ‘Smart’ CPP analysis that adjusts based on part orientation
“For those who are new to AM, the journey often begins with the most basic question about applications or assemblies: ‘Can I 3D Print This?’ Despite its proven advantages and widespread adoption, many companies still deem AM an emerging technology and are hesitant to augment their traditional manufacturing processes. Our new Can I 3D Print This tool helps with initial decision-making by empowering potential users to explore and gather information about the promise of AM within their organisation,” shared Dr David Krzeminski, EOS North America senior Additive Minds consultant.
EOS partnered with Castor Technologies Ltd to create the Can I 3D Print This? tool. This web-based tool is currently only available to North American users, but EOS is reportedly exploring a global offering. Users are limited to analysing five parts, but larger batch analysis of applications or assemblies can be completed in collaboration with EOS’ Additive Minds engineering team.
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