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Hybrid 3D prototyping of polymer components with conductive metallic tracks (Hy3DPro)

Additive manufacturing processes, such as so-called 3D printing, are promising manufacturing technologies and could be the next stage of the industrial revolution. Currently, the technology's field of application is limited to the production of mechanical components. The direct printing of 3D products with electrical functionalities could enable a wide range of new applications in industry in the future.

The aim of the Hy3DPro project is to develop a demonstrator of a low-cost multi-material 3D printer by integrating a classic filament extruder (FDM technology) with a printhead for direct printing of metals (StarJet technology) into an automated 3D printing system. With this novel hybrid 3D printing platform, mechanical components and conductive 3D structures integrated into them can be produced by applying the two materials layer by layer according to digital designs. Advantages of the StarJet technology developed at IMTEK compared to other printing techniques are the use of low-cost metal alloys, high electrical conductivity and simple printing of conductive 3D structures. In addition, the printed solder adheres well to polymer substrates such as PET films and 3D-printed surfaces. After the printing process, the structures show high flexibility and low electrical resistance.

It is important for innovative companies to quickly find solutions for the specific, rapidly changing requirements of their customers and thus also to be able to serve niche applications. The results of this project should help to open up a completely new area of digital manufacturing. Namely, the 3D printing of hybrid polymer-metal structures for applications in the prototyping of electrical 3D circuit carriers, 3D-MID components, 3D electronics and even the small series production of electrical components and antennas integrated into housings.

Project
Hybrid 3D prototyping of polymer components with conductive metallic tracks (Hy3DPro)
Sponsor
AiF - Arbeitsgemeinschaft industrieller Forschungsvereinigungen "Otto von Guericke" e.V.
Funding Number
21623 N
Duration
02.01.2021 to 31.07.2023
Cooperation Partner
IMTEK - Department of Microsystems Engineering at the University of Freiburg
Maturity Level
Research
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Competences

  • Functional printing
  • 3D Printing
  • Metal Printing
  • 3D Electronics
  • Polymer electronics