Oerlikon delivers 1000th additively manufactured bicycle component to Urwahn
November 15, 2021
Oerlikon Group, Pfäffikon, Schwyz, Switzerland, reports that its Additive Manufacturing team in Barleben, Germany, has now surpassed the milestone of delivering 1,000 AM components to bicycle manufacturer Urwahn Engineering GmbH, Magdeburg, Germany. Oerlikon has produced some 150 sets of seven unique components for a bicycle, based on a completely new design developed by Urwahn Engineering founder Sebastian Meinecke.
The partnership between the companies began several years ago when Meinecke brought his idea to the Oerlikon AM team. From concept to creation, both partners determined the materials, processes and the right machines to develop this unique next-generation bike.
“The collaboration with the Oerlikon team has been great,” stated Meinecke. “With their knowledge of materials and technology, we were able to develop a process chain that enabled us to offer new and unique features such as fully integrated electric systems for the product. And this is just the beginning. I am excited to see what else we can innovate together by taking advantage of new materials and Additive Manufacturing.”
In addition to its unique shape, which uses rear wheel elastic suspension to ensure a comfortable ride, the frame has integrated LED lighting and a GPS tracking system as well as other features, which would not be feasible to make with conventional production processes. To protect the frame and add another innovative dimension, a protective Balinit Croma Plus coating, from the Oerlikon Balzers brand, is applied.
Hendrik Alfter, General Manager of Oerlikon’s European production, commented, “This is the kind of project that sparks our creativity because we started with a completely white board. Sustainable mobility and transportation options, including cycling, are megatrends as people steer toward environmentally friendly options to stay mobile. We see great opportunity in this market.”
The bike will be showcased during Formnext 2021 at Oerlikon’s booth located in Hall 12.1, Stand E101.
