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BASF Forward AM + Prosilas: Validation of TPU88A in Ultrasim® Lattice Engine software

BASF Forward AM + Prosilas: Validation of TPU88A in Ultrasim® Lattice Engine software

BASF Forward AM + Prosilas Case History

A highly productive and longstanding collaboration has been established between Prosilas and BASF Forward AM over the years. This partnership has given rise to esteemed projects, including the research and production of Philipp Plein’s Skeleton Sole and the comprehensive Lube Volley Case Study.

When BASF Forward AM approached us for cooperation, we welcomed the opportunity with great enthusiasm.

Our involvement centered around the characterization of 3D printed lattice structures made of Ultrasint® TPU88A from BASF Forward AM. It aims to offer users pre-selected, validated lattices in Ultrasint® TPU88A on SLS machines to get a head start in their lattice application development.

For this, the validated lattices will be integrated into BASF Forward AM´s lattice ecosystem consisting of Ultrasint®TPU 88A Lattice Test Pads, Ultrasim® Lattice Library, and Ultrasim® Lattice Engine.

Prosilas will provide excellent print service with an in-dept know-how on printing lattice structures.

Prosilas successfully and expertly utilizes BASF Forward AM´s Ultrasint® TPU 88A. Annually, we process approximately 2000 kg of this TPU in our SLS machines.

Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Engine

What is Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Engine?

 

Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Engine, powered by Hyperganic, is a software application designed to efficiently populate geometric volumes with lattice structures. To achieve this, the software incorporates two key inputs: the STL file of the component requiring lattice infill and a pressure map for performance modulation.

Users can select the specific lattice structure type and hardness parameters from either the 3D printed Lattice Test Pad database or the Ultrasim® Lattice Library, a library containing all characterized lattice structures with in-depth mechanical data.

 

Upon making these selections, the software autonomously generates the chosen lattice structure within the specified volume. This process renders the file ready for subsequent 3D printing operations.

What is the Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Library?

All the results of the lattice characterization is stored in a library named Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Library. This library allows users to filter lattices by application (Footwear, Protection, Seating), by technical requirements and compare the strain-strain curves for different lattices structures. This way users can much easier find and identify the right lattice. Here you find more information about the library: Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Library​ .

Exaples of Lattice structure

Lattice Test Pads

What are the Lattice Test Pads, and what is their purpose?

Lattice Test Pads are the 3D printed version of the are Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Library.

They are 3D-printed TPU blocks divided into sections that specify the cell size and beam diameter. Each section provides information regarding the structure classification and hardness.

These Lattice Test Pads come in three types: footwear, seating, and protection. Each type features a lattice structure suitable for its respective application, such as shoe soles, seat cushions, headrests, or various protective elements.

TPU: incredibly flexible material in every sense

It is a thermoplastic material widely utilized in SLS 3D printing due to its exceptional elasticity, rebound, durability, and resistance to tearing, fatigue, and abrasion.

Lattice structures are repeating patterns composed of cells, beams, and nodes that aim to replace foam applications using a single material but different shore hardnesses.

There are countless variations of lattice structures, each exhibiting distinct mechanical behaviors.

Based on an in-depth study of TPU lattice structures, BASF Forward AM successfully characterized and validated lattice structures based on their behaviour for various applications.

This validation allows to pre-select lattices application in various industrial sectors, namely Footwear, Protection, and Seating.

Three types of Lattice Test Pads :footwear, seating, and protection

Roberto Nasini, Senior Technician Prosilas 

Contribution of Prosilas 

Prosilas has been involved in the lattice characterization process, providing various prints of the 3D Lattice Test Pad samples that allowed BASF Forward AM to conduct in-depth studies. These data were essential for furthering the progress of the software.

To ensure that the software consistently delivers high-quality results over time, specific machine parameters have been established for the fabrication of these structures. These parameters have been designed to set a printing standard, ensuring that software users obtain consistent and reliable results. This commitment to quality and consistency is crucial for the success and effectiveness of the software.

About BASF 3D Printing Solutions GmbH

BASF 3D Printing Solutions GmbH, headquartered in Heidelberg, Germany, is a 100% subsidiary of BASF. It focuses on establishing and expanding the industrialization of 3D printing applications under the Forward AM brand with advanced materials, system solutions, components, and services in the field of 3D printing.

BASF 3D Printing Solutions operates in an agile structure to create customer value with complete 3D printing solutions, in collaboration with partners, for the most innovative applications. It cooperates closely with the global research platforms and application technologies of various departments at BASF and with research institutes, universities, startups and industrial partners. Potential customers are primarily companies that intend to use 3D printing for industrial manufacturing. Typical industries include automotive, aerospace and consumer goods.

For further information please visit: www.forward-am.com.

Marius Haefele, Basf Product Manager 

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Lube Volley and Prosilas together to win, with the support of 3D printing

Lube Volley and Prosilas together to win, with the support of 3D printing

Lube Volley + Prosilas Case History

What Prosilas and Lube Volley have in common is not only their city of origin, Civitanova Marche, but also their shared pursuit of challenges and desire to succeed. For the esteemed Marche team, this translates into winning trophies and championships. Meanwhile, for Prosilas, it means constantly seeking innovative solutions to support the development of an increasingly demanding industrial market. The collaboration between the two companies was recently solidified through a sponsorship agreement, which prominently displays Prosilas’ name on the volleyball team’s uniforms. Additionally, they engage in a strong joint effort that connects sports achievements with the utilization of additive manufacturing.

 

Lube Volley, Prosilas-supported club is the  most successful in the 21st century

 

Champion of Italy 2022, Lube Volleyball is an acclaimed team, boasting  in its list of victories a World Club title, seven league titles (the last three won consecutively), two Champions Leagues, seven Italian Cups and four Italian Super Cups, three CEV Cups and one Challenge Cup. The team expresses a very high technical level of play, capable of always competing at the top: and when playing at high levels even small details can make a difference.

Lube Volley, the team

A tangible collaboration, thanks to 3D printing

 

When Enrico Diamantini and Ivan Zaytsev, two prominent athletes from the club, expressed their need for new hand protection devices during games, the relationship between Lube Volley and Prosilas evolved beyond a simple sponsorship. Prosilas immediately utilized its expertise in 3D printing to develop an innovative, customized, and tailored solution for both players.

We took the opportunity to get even closer to the world of medicine and sport, trying to develop a truly useful and professional application,’ says Vanna Menco, CEO Prosilas

Diamantini required an alternative to the temporary brace he had been using to support his injured right little finger, while Zaytsev needed a replacement for the medical tape he typically used to stabilize his fingers during high-impact phases of the game.

Ivan Zaytsev and Enrico Diamantini

The previous solutions had limitations in terms of materials, lacking of technical performance, reusability, and customization, which resulted in a sub-optimal playing experience. However, with the advent of 3D printing, Prosilas believed that they could overcome these limitations and produce custom-made and reusable devices with exceptional speed and precision.

For Diamantini, the old brace was rigid, bulky, and therefore uncomfortable. The negative impact on his ball touch led him to use it sporadically and only for the minimum required time. Similarly, Zaytsev sought a custom-made, reusable alternative that provided better sensitivity compared to traditional medical tape.

Through their collaboration with Prosilas, both athletes found the solution they were looking for, addressing their specific needs and improving their playing experience on the court.

Fast and successful product development

 The initial phase of the project focused on acquiring the 3D models of Diamantini and Zaytsev’s hands using the Gom Atos 5 3D scanner, which involved scanning plaster casts. Subsequently, the design phase commenced, incorporating reverse engineering techniques to accurately model customized designs. These designs were tailored to protect and immobilize the injured joint in one case, and provide comfortable support in the other. The devices underwent testing and, with valuable feedback from the athletes, were progressively refined to achieve the best possible results.

“The responsiveness of additive technology is truly remarkable. The initial contact with the players took place in October 2022, and after just five rounds of improvements, we were able to arrive at the final version of the devices for both players within a very short timeframe,” states the CEO of Prosilas.

3D scan of Ivan Zaystsev’s right hand

3D design through reverse engineering of protective devices

TPU protective devices being tested on the cast of Ivan Zaystsev’s right hand

TPU: a strategic choice

 

To create these customized and highly comfortable devices, Prosilas opted for BASF’s TPU Ultrasint 88a due to its flexibility and mechanical impact resistance. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is an elastic polymer known for its versatility and resilience. It can withstand shocks, abrasions, tears, chemical and weathering agents, and is impermeable to water and gases.

TPU is often considered the intersection between rubber and plastic, thanks to its physical characteristics, wide range of hardness options, and flexibility without the need for plasticizers.

For the initial test with Diamantini, three different TPU models were created using SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) technology, each with varying thicknesses of 1, 1.5, and 2 mm. TPU allows for slight variations in thickness, enabling flexibility in the final product.

For Zaytsev, an initial set of devices was produced with a consistent thickness of 2 mm to provide greater rigidity. Additionally, a lateral cut was made to improve the fit of the devices for him.

3D design through reverse engineering of protective devices

TPU protective devices for Enrico Diamantini in three different thicknesses: 1, 1.5 and 2 mm

Testing phase and results

“The results achieved through the utilization of additive technology are undeniably positive,” remarks Vanna Menco. “This is further corroborated by the outcomes of resistance tests conducted on the material by our supplier, BASF 3D Printing Solutions.”

 The testing phase was a critical step in the process. Collaborating with BASF, an effort was made to replicate a volleyball game in a laboratory setting. This involved evaluating the material’s chemical resistance, short and long-term durability, as well as color stability.

To assess the material’s mechanical stability, strength tests were conducted after 30 minutes, 7 days, and 14 days, with the parts immersed in synthetic sweat.

Tensile strength and elongation at break were measured at these intervals. Furthermore, a sudden impact test was performed to simulate crushing, and no significant changes were observed. The color measurement, which determined its stability over time, confirmed that there was no yellowing or noticeable alteration after 14 days. These results provide evidence of the material’s reliability and longevity.

TPU testing samples

Sudden impact test results

The remarkable durability and strength of the custom 3D-printed devices can be deduced from the absence of significant degradation observed during testing. This ensures the longevity of the product even under repeated stress and in special chemical conditions. Apart from the scientific findings, the enthusiastic feedback from the athletes themselves confirmed the positive results and the significant improvement in playability and game feel.

“I recommend the protection systems made by Prosilas to everyone. Because they are customized, they give maximum comfort in every technical gesture. It’s like not having them!”

says Enrico Diamantini, who used the device during his recovery from a dislocation.

Ivan Zaytsev, on the other hand, continues to use the customised devices on his hands. He says:

“Thanks to Prosilas, I immediately felt comfortable with hitting the ball, the four braces were  efficient and above all eco-friendly given the amount of tape they save me!

 

The combination of improved performance, stable feel, durable material, and complete customization results in an overall increase in comfort for athletes during competition, leading to an enhancement in playing performance.

Customization has become an essential trend in the world of ultra-competitive champions, and additive solutions go above and beyond by offering specific shapes and characteristics tailored to each individual athlete’s needs.

 

Working with BASF 3D Printing Solutions

 

BASF 3D Printing Solutions, operating under the Forward AM brand, is a division of BASF New Business GmbH that is specialized in advanced materials, system solutions, components, and services in the field of 3D printing. With a lean structure and an agile mindset akin to a start-up, BASF 3D Printing Solutions is well-equipped to cater to the diverse needs of various industries by offering innovative and customized services. The company works closely with other departments within BASF, research institutes, universities, start-ups, and industrial partners to serve customers in automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and other product categories.

The partnership with BASF 3D Printing Solutions holds significant strategic importance for Prosilas, further solidified by the mutual respect between the two companies.

 “Prosilas brings extensive experience in printing our flexible TPU materials, ensuring the consistent delivery of superior quality parts,” explains Tobias Haefele, Product Manager Powder Bed Fusion. “We greatly appreciate their exceptional creativity,” he continues, “and their attitude to push the limits of the 3D printing market, paving the way for new applications, which align with our vision. With their specialist knowledge and established presence in sectors such as fashion, they have earned our trust as a reliable partner in consistently delivering exceptional products over the years. At BASF 3DPS, we are excited to continue our journey with Prosilas, forging a promising future for additive manufacturing.”

KTM chooses Prosilas 3D printing to ride in the wind

KTM chooses Prosilas 3D printing to ride in the wind

Ktm + Prosilas Case History

Passion for speed meets 3D printing innovation

Since the beginnings of 3D printing, one of the sectors that has most perceived and grasped its potential is undoubtedly racing and motorsport. The demand for parts and components with high mechanical performance, but in limited production runs and tight deadlines, make additive manufacturing the ideal choice for those who produce high performance cars and motorbikes.

This is well known by the Austrian company KTM, whose Aerodynamics and Factory Racing departments have persistently researched and developed revolutionary solutions, not only for the production of functional prototypes, but also for end-use components, to be used both in the wind tunnel and on the track.

A partner for 3D printing of carbon-filled nylon elements

It was precisely with a view to creating parts capable of exceptional performance, not only mechanical but also aerodynamic, that the collaboration between KTM and Prosilas was born. In particular, Prosilas’ role is to work alongside the Austrian giant as a partner for the 3D printing and finishing of parts in Polyamide PA2200 added with carbon fibre using SLS technology. A true additive manufacturing process in Nylon with carbon that, thanks to the printing parameters specifically studied by Prosilas technicians for the EOS P770 printer, has also been proposed for large format parts (680x370x540 mm chamber). Prosilas is the only company on the European scene that can offer this kind of 3D printing for objects and components of this size in PA 603 CF  material.

Aerodynamic appendix for the motorbike KTM RC16 MotoGP

Brad Binder, Red Bull KTM, MotoGP RC16 Circuit Ricardo Tormo

From simulations to the wind tunnel: what were KTM’s objectives when you chose Prosilas as your partner?

The desire was to identify and develop additive-moulded materials that could undergo post-processing to bring the surface finish up to the levels required for our aerodynamic needs,” says Daniel Marshall Team Leader Aerodynamics at KTM: “In particular, we needed to improve the correlation between simulations and subsequent testing, and then possibly produce parts that could cope with track tests and even race events. Thanks to the qualities of PA 603 CF and the surface finishes offered by Prosilas, we can now have parts that fully meet our requirements. We have been able to decisively improve the correlation between computational simulation and wind tunnel testing“.

Vanna Menco, CEO Prosilas, Noemi Rossi, Sales Manager Prosilas, Daniel Marshall Team Leader Aerodinamics KTm , Michele Paolinelli Sales Account Prosilas

From right to left: Vanna Menco, CEO Prosilas; Noemi Rossi, Sales Manager Prosilas; Daniel Marshall Team Leader Aerodinamics KTM; Michele Paolinelli Sales Account Prosilas @ KTM Factory Racing 

Brad Binder  & Jack Miller,  motorbike RC16 Red Bull KTM. MotoGP 2023

Constant comparison in the name of optimisation

Highly innovative results, therefore, achieved through an ongoing collaboration between KTM and Prosilas to combine aerodynamic and engineering expertise with that of additive manufacturing: “The choice of materials and surface and post-processing finishes was made in constant collaboration with Prosilas,” explains Daniel Marshall. “Thanks to this partnership, further progress was made in optimising the components in terms of weight, rigidity and waste reduction

What made KTM choose 3D printing over the traditional methods previously used?

“We decided to go for 3D printing for two very specific reasons: short lead times and minimal quantities,” concludes Daniel Marshall: “We usually produce test parts in one-offs, so traditional production processes are not applicable in terms of both cost and delivery time.

Additive technology allows finished parts in production timescales that are unthinkable for any other technology. For example, eight aerodynamic appendages for the tail of the KTM RC16 MotoGP motorbike were printed and finished within just four days of the order being placed. An astonishing result, which only reaffirms the now inseparable link between racing and motorsport and 3D printing.

A story, the one between Prosilas and the historic KTM, that once again confirms Prosilas’ commitment to being a winning ally to industrial production.

Appendice aerodinamica per la moto KTM RC16 MotoGP

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Armotia Case History

Armotia Case History

Armotia + Prosilas Case History

Prototypes of electric motorcycles: the support of 3d printing.

Prosilas played a key role in the realization of the Armotia project, a company based in Osimo that is dedicated to the design and production of electric motocross and enduro motorcycles. Thanks to the collaboration between these two companies, it was possible to create innovative and high-quality prototypes that represent a true revolution in the world of motorcycling.

 

Armotia: the project

ARMOTIA presents DUE X and DUE R, the first two electric series motorcycles with two electronically controlled distribution drivetrain.

Our motorcycles have exceptional traction characteristics that will give you amazing riding sensations allowing you to experience every type of track, on and off road, as never before.

Besides all this, ARMOTIA offers standard intelligent features and possibilities. Such as an integrated smartphone to record videos, check performance, save telemetry data, and share all your routes. Or the possibility to personalize the most appealing parts of the fairings with a 3D printer, to make the most special motorcycles even more “special” that you have ever seen. Because if it is true that two wheels move the soul, with ARMOTIA you will discover that two-wheel drivetrain definitely does it better.

From the Armotia website.

 

Prosilas’s expertise

Armotia has relied on 3D printing technology for the production of parts and components necessary for the creation of the DUE R and DUE X motorcycle prototypes. In this context, Prosilas has provided valuable support thanks to their expertise in materials and finishes for 3D objects.

Thanks to the consultancy provided by Prosilas, Armotia was able to choose the most suitable materials for the realization of their prototypes, ensuring a high level of resistance and surface finishing: alumide and glass-filled polyamide (PA12 GF) for fairings and shells.

Aluminum is a very resistant material that presents a good surface finish, making it ideal for the realization of parts that require high-quality finishing. Moreover, this material can be easily painted, allowing for further customization of the prototypes.

On the other hand, the glass-filled polyamide is a highly resistant material, which is perfectly suited for the production of parts that require greater robustness, and also CNC treatments.

Thanks to Prosilas’ consultancy, Armotia was able to choose the most suitable material for each specific application.

This synergy shows how 3D printing and the consultancy of specialized companies like Prosilas can make a difference in the realization of innovative and high-quality projects.

 

 

Post-processing treatments: painting

In addition to advice on the optimal choice of materials, we offer advice on which post-process treatment is the most suitable to achieve the best possible result.

The painting service allows to obtain parts in different customizable colors with a surface finish similar to that of the parts produced with injection molding. Our finishing department is able to replace the entire range of RAL colors and special colors according to customer requests.

Painting is an important aspect to consider in the production of parts in 3d and it gives an added value allowing to get an aesthetically appealing prototype and very close to the final product.

Thanks to advanced technologies and materials, the prototypes and series produced in Prosilas can also have matt, glossy and metallic finishes or resistant to UV rays or to hydrocarbon.

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NEW SPARE PARTS AND SPARE PARTS: 3D PRINTING FOR THE HYDRAULIC SECTOR.

NEW SPARE PARTS AND SPARE PARTS: 3D PRINTING FOR THE HYDRAULIC SECTOR.

The opportunities offered by 3D printing are now multiple and the continuous developments of technology allow us to respond promptly even to the needs of sectors that were considered too specific such as hydraulics and hydrothermohydraulics.

An innovative solution

In particular, the innovative combination of industrial 3D scanning and 3D printing with SLS tencology offers a wide range of opportunities. In particular, in the hydro-hydraulic sector, the production of implementation and replacement parts on furniture, taps, sanitary ware, air conditioning and convector systems represent one of the greatest challenges and needs.

It is precisely here that additive manufacturing represents an excellent alternative, with numerous advantages over more traditional technologies, both from the point of view of the aesthetic and mechanical performance guaranteed on the parts produced, both for its ability to reproduce obsolete or discontinued components, intervening if necessary on the optimization of geometries quickly and functionally .

Roberto Nasini Prosilas Stampare 3d per l'industria manifatturiera
la produzione Stampe tre d per produzioni e preserie Prosilas

Rebuilding spare parts that are now out of production or whose mold has been lost has never been so simple and fast!

A process that we at Prosilas know well and that through the use of our 3D scanners and the application of reverse engineering has allowed us to produce a particular model of hydraulic tap breaker and a shower customized to the specific request customer’s.

With the 3D file  from the scanning of the part out of production, the SLS technology used in our laboratories Prosilas allows  to 3D print functional elements, also offering the possibility to work on large results or series (working chamber 680x380x540 mm), being able to choose from a wide range of materials: PA12, PA12+Glass spheres, PA12 + Carbon fiber, PP (Polypropylene). 

An opportunity, that of putting back on the market spare parts out of production getting the reconstruction through additive technology, that not only allows to answer to a specific need without looking for solutions of fortune or sketched, but which makes the production itself much more sustainable and performing. 

On-demand warehouse

 

The case of the 3D reconstruction and printing of the tap and a custom shower model shows how on the one hand 3D printing allows to have a production according to the needs, thanks to a virtual warehouse on demand without the need to manage a physical storage and from the other offers the opportunity to rethink the component in additive, in order to obtain an improvement of the mechanical performances. 

Innovative and customized additive solutions that we propose, supporting companies in all sectors, even those universally recognized as the most demanding just like the world of hydrothermohydraulics. 

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Prosilas for Philipp Plein, the shoe revolution starts from a 3D sole

Prosilas for Philipp Plein, the shoe revolution starts from a 3D sole

Philipp Plein Case History

Prosilas: AM Service & Consulting 

Since the beginning of our entrepreneurial adventure, in 2003, we have chosen not to specialize in a particular production sector, preferring to offer as a service to customers in different sectors. Thus, we have maintained a flexibility that has proved particularly successful when, in our transition from prototyping service to manufacturing ally, we were commissioned the sole of a shoe for one of the brands symbol of fashion luxury: Philipp Plein.

 

R&D on Tpu 

In 2020 we enabled the use of TPU, a rubber material widely used in the moulding of soles, on our SLS production systems.  This gave us the opportunity to start the collaboration with Philipp Plein, with the aim of creating a capsule collection of footwear in which to combine innovation and luxury, dedicated to a specific niche of the brand’s customers.   At the heart of the work, for us, was the creation of an attractive model in line with the taste of the brand and the development of a product that exceeded a series of requirements of strength and durability.

 3D SOLE

In fact, the sole is one of the crucial elements of a shoe and one of the most stressed by the use. We then conducted a detailed study and a deep work on design and process to ensure replicability. For this reason we also supported the company that would then assemble the final shoe, facing and solving together specific processing problems that usually do not concern those who make prototypes.

The result ?

First, we got a sole completely out of the standard of a traditional ones, with a latticed structure; then, the opportunity to innovate the style thanks to the possibilities offered by 3D printing; finally, we opened doors to unique pieces, unthinkable (or infinitely more expensive) when all the process of creation must use injection moulding. 

Thank to a work like this, a progressive set of know-how is created that is completely new but can be used in all subsequent experiments. So, for example, for Philipp Plein shoes, we conducted several tests on the tightness of the colors of the soles, especially white – which should not turn yellow or turn on other shades – and black – which should not shin, so it can not be painted.

How was that possible? 

The problem-solving business approach was essential 

“There are no closed doors,” explains our CEO Vanna Menco, “We always accept challenges, we like to evolve and find solutions”. In this the imprinting of my father was fundamental, because – she continues – he “loves to crack his head on problems” and not by chance he still leads the Research and Development department.

Our transition from suppliers to consulting service  has been made possible by a know-how developed to support the customer at all stages of production, making available our deep expertise in 3D printing. So, we went from consulting at the prototype stage to consulting for all product development, also providing knowledge on specific steps, such as the blend of the material to be used to achieve a certain result. 

Our constant commitment to be the best possible consulting service for AM world. 

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