UBJ
Universal Binder Jetting
Overview
UBJ parts are built within a build chamber. The part productivity depends upon the size of the object as it relates to the volume of the build chamber, the production time and finishing required. Because the core material is in powder form, it is possible to vertically stack parts within the build chamber.
Process Summary
- 1
Step 1
Printing
A thin layer of sand is evenly spread across the build platform by a re-coater blade. An inkjet array selectively applies a fusing agent. The fusing agent binds the sand together, whereupon a new layer of sand is deposited on top of it. This process repeats until the 3D geometry is complete.
- 2
Step 2
Support Removal
Manual Removal Like other binder jetting technologies, parts are self-supported by the surrounding loose powder during the build, which is removed post-printing using air or vacuum blowers, or in some cases by brushing. Soluble Support Removal Non-applicable. Manual Cleaning Note: Careful cleaning of green parts (before curing or sintering) is essential since parts are often fragile and can be easily damaged.
- 3
Step 3
Surface Finishing
Sanding / Polishing Parts typically require post-sintering finishing: Sanding is often necessary for smoother surfaces or parts with high tolerance requirements Chemical Smoothing / Coating Non-applicable. Painting / Priming Non-applicable Gloss / Matte Control Non-applicable.
- 4
Step 4
Curing / Heat Treatment
UV / Thermal Curing Thermal curing is necessary to remove the binder (also known as the debinding process) before sintering or hardening. Annealing / Stress Relief Non-applicable.
- 5
Step 5
Assembly and Functional Finishing
Gluing or Bonding Non-applicable. Drilling / Tapping / CNC Non-applicable. Inserts / Fasteners Non-applicable.
- 6
Step 6
Special Treatments
Infiltration / Sealing Non-applicable. Functional Coatings Non-applicable.
- 7
Step 7
Productivity
UBJ parts are built within a build chamber. The part productivity depends upon the size of the object as it relates to the volume of the build chamber, the production time and finishing required. Because the core material is in powder form, it is possible to vertically stack parts within the build chamber. This information relates to the potential productivity of a single machine. All AM types can be arranged together to form print farms or smart factories that will increase productivity. These collections of multiple units can also provide opportunities for varying degrees of automation.
Technical Information
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