HP expands 3D presence with new PP material for components and expanded cooperation with BASF and Oechsler as well as new Metal Jet customers
- New HP 3D High Reusability Polypropylene (PP) material was developed together with BASF and strengthens the existing partnership
- Further cooperations with Extol, GKN Powder Metallurgy/Forecast 3D, Henkel, Oechsler and Prototal open up new market potential
- New industrial partnership with Oechsler drives personalization in the automotive industry and other sectors and reduces complexity
HP continues to expand its leadership in 3D printing and digital manufacturing: A unique new polypropylene (PP) material for additive manufacturing is driving the industry forward and enabling innovative applications. The new HP 3D High Reusability Polypropylene was developed by BASF specifically for 3D production systems and is a versatile, durable and chemically resistant material - it is particularly suitable for companies in the automotive, consumer goods, industrial and healthcare sectors. In addition, HP will cooperate with Oechsler, a company in the plastics processing industry. Together, the companies will develop applications for both the new PP and other materials from the HP portfolio. In addition, new customer Cobra Golf will use Metal Jet 3D printing technology.
Innovative PP holds potential and improves sustainability
The new HP 3D High Reusability PP provides customers with a unique material for additive manufacturing. The PP has the same properties as PPs conventionally used in injection moulding and thus offers almost infinite application possibilities. Due to its chemical resistance, low moisture absorption and long-term durability, PP is ideal for the production of piping, fluid systems and containers. A practical example: Car manufacturers can use the same PP for the production of prototypes and components in the vehicle interior, exterior and engine compartment.
The material was developed in cooperation with BASF for HP's Jet Fusion 5200 3D series and enables high productivity in industrial manufacturing. It also significantly reduces the amount of waste. The reason: Excess powder can be almost completely reused.
Together with partners, component suppliers and customers, HP is also developing new PP applications. These include among others:
- Extol, a plastics technology and innovation company with leading plastics assembly technology, custom automation and engineering services
- GKN Powder Metallurgy/Forecast 3D, a provider of advanced industrial 3D printing, low-volume and high-volume production
- Henkel, a leading company for highly effective adhesives and technical solutions
- Oechsler, an innovative supplier of components for additive manufacturing
- Prototal, one of the most experienced parts manufacturers in Europe
New Professional Services and expanded Industry 4.0 alliances support manufacturing
HP's goal is to accelerate the digital production of its customers. New 3D Professional Service offers and strategic cooperations support this goal:
- HP 3D Professional Services: New services include optimized application designs and streamlined manufacturing processes for both personalized and mass production and application identification.
- BASF and HP are continuing their strategic partnership and developing further applications together with customers from the automotive, consumer goods, industrial and pharmaceutical sectors. With the new PP and the innovative thermoplastic polyurethane ULTRASINT® TPU01, HP and BASF are accelerating the design and series production of 3D printed components. Customers can now produce and bring products to market faster, more cost-effectively and more sustainably than ever before.
- In addition, HP will work closely with Oechsler AG in the future. The strategic alliance with the world's leading supplier of components for additive manufacturing covers the entire product life cycle - from application design to production of the components. With its HP Jet Fusion 5200 3D series printer fleet and an extensive materials portfolio, Oechsler supports leading automobile manufacturers, global consumer electronics companies, household and commercial appliances and innovative medical device providers in the production of numerous new applications.
- In addition, Fast Radius, a leading provider of manufacturing technologies, is now part of the HP Digital Manufacturing Network. The global community of HP manufacturing partners is leveraging the power of HP 3D printing solutions for the design and production of plastic and metal components. The members of the HP Digital Manufacturing Network have years of additive manufacturing expertise, robust quality management and end-to-end manufacturing processes, and proven capabilities for producing large orders. The HP Digital Manufacturing Network consists of partners in the United States, Asia and Europe.
Cobra Golf pushes series production
Cobra Golf, one of the world's leading manufacturers of golf clubs and equipment, is using the HP Metal Jet for its entry into 3D printing for product innovation and parts production. HP Metal Jet technology is the industry's leading platform for 3D volume production of metal parts.
As one of the leading innovators in the world of golf, Cobra is committed to revolutionary advances in technology, designing high-quality clubs and accessories that improve the game. Cobra, HP and Parmatech are working together on a strategic, multi-year product roadmap that leverages the design and manufacturing advantages of HP's additive technologies to deliver golf equipment that improves golfer performance and satisfaction.
"Cobra Golf strives to deliver high-performance products that allow golfers of all levels to give their best and enjoy the game," said Jose Miraflor, vice president of marketing, Cobra Golf. "To achieve this, it is critical to use the most effective manufacturing processes to design, develop and achieve optimal results. We are working with HP and Parmatech to leverage the potential of Metal Jet and continue to transform the way we manufacture. Design freedom, rapid design iteration and high quality parts that meet our business needs are immediate benefits.
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