The origin of CleanFuse adhesive, a closer look at the deepening cooperation between ExOne and Fraunhofer IFAM

The relationship between Fraunhofer IFAM and ExOne in the development of metal binder spraying spans more than two decades. They have been working together since around 1998, when ExOne was part of Extrude Hone and launched the world’s first commercial metal binder injection system RTS-300. In recent years, they have jointly improved and optimized CleanFuse, an ExOne adhesive developed based on Fraunhofer IFAM. The result is a clean burning binder for optimal 3D printing of stainless steel and high-quality metals.

© Fraunhofer IFAM, Bremen, Germany

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CleanFuse™ Metal Bond is a clean burning bond used to optimize 3D printing of stainless steel and high-quality metals.

The Fraunhofer Institute of Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials (Fraunhofer IFAM) is one of the most advanced manufacturing technology and advanced materials institutes. Recently, Fraunhofer IFAM, an important European independent research institution, announced that after the success of CleanFuse™ metal adhesives, they are deepening their partnership with Exone on adhesive and material development projects.

According to the in-depth understanding of 3D Science Valley, when Fraunhofer IFAM began to develop on Innovent, it quickly realized that it had made a major breakthrough. ExOne was immediately enthusiastic about the development of Fraunhofer IFAM, because the printed results have excellent green strength and clean burnout at low curing temperatures. Fraunhofer and ExOne improved the binder together, which is now CleanFuse.

The partnership between Fraunhofer IFAM and ExOne continues to deepen and is currently developing a CleanFuse version for processing reactive materials such as aluminum and titanium.

Collaboration brings rapid technology iteration and innovation

According to ExOne, through the cooperation of Fraunhofer, it was discovered that Fraunhofer’s unique collaborative power-bringing together various experts and knowledge-to solve complex problems in the best way. At Binder LinkedIn, Fraunhofer IFAM has been Exone’s leading partner-helping Exone better understand binders, different types of powders, and how to work together in the entire process chain from printing to final sintering to provide Quality parts.

Fraunhofer IFAM has a strong foundation in the development and processing of metal and polymer materials and comprehensive knowledge of additive manufacturing technologies (especially based on sintering processes). The institute’s location in Bremen, Germany is fully equipped for sintering-based additive manufacturing and provides all technologies for printing, de-powdering, degreasing and sintering of metal parts. Researchers have special expertise in metal powders, binders and their interactions.

For research and development in the field of metal binder spraying, Fraunhofer IFAM uses a series of ExOne printers (starting with Innovent+) for material and process development. The three printers use ExOne’s patented triple advanced compaction technology (ACT) to provide industry-leading green component density. Recently, the institute has put the X1 25Pro production speed metal binder injection system into operation to study its feasibility in trial production and trial production environments.

According to the understanding of 3D Science Valley, Fraunhofer IFAM is one of Europe’s most important independent research institutions for adhesive bonding technology, surface, molding and functional materials. R&D is mainly aimed at industries that have special significance for future viability: aviation, automotive, energy technology, medical technology and life sciences, and maritime technology. At the five locations of the Fraunhofer IFAM Institute-Bremen, Dresden, Ystad, Wolfsburg and Brunswick-and the Maritime Technology Test Center in Helgoland-Fraunhofer IFAM will The Fraunhofer approach is put into practice: scientific excellence, focus on technical applications, and measurable utility to provide customers with the highest quality service.

ExOne is a pioneer in the industry’s familiar binder jet 3D printing technology. Since 1995, Exone has been committed to solving tough problems and implementing innovations that change the world. ExOne’s 3D printing system can quickly transform powder materials (including metals, ceramics, composites and sand) into precision parts, metal casting molds and cores, and innovative tooling solutions. Industrial customers use Exone’s technology to save time and money, reduce waste, increase their manufacturing flexibility, and implement designs and products that were once impossible.

Cross-industry cooperation creates a win-win situation

Fraunhofer’s R&D strength comes from the unique achievements of each research institute, and also from the cooperation between the institutes. The cooperation between the institutes under Fraunhofer is a normal state. In the field of additive manufacturing, the Fraunhofer IFAM Institute also participates The futureAM project initiated by the Fraunhofer ILT Laser Institute in Aachen.

futureAM