For decades voestalpine and its core steel brands BÖHLER and UDDEHOLM have been recognized as global leaders in the manufacture and the supply of high performance tool steels. As a result we understand the unique challenges that our customers face in the Plastic Injection Molding industry. We are now innovating further with Additive Manufacturing.
Working closely with our customers, we follow our three pillared approach of Optimized Design, Optimized Powder and Optimized Printing, using state-of-the-art Additive Manufacturing know how to develop bespoke 3D printed tooling inserts for the toughest Plastic Injection Molding industry applications.
Your trusted Additive Manufacturing partner.
We support our customers through a detailed consultation process to develop the right solution for the right application, where needed our Plastic Injection Molding experts can help our customers re-design tools and inserts according to the exact requirements of their application.
Our data driven approach to cooling channel design analyses processing parameters and mechanical loads to develop detailed computer models and process simulations (digital twins) of each customers molding application. This method of optimizing thermal management is essential to ensure the right balance between efficient cooling and maximizing the mechanical performance of the tool.
This process goes far beyond regular conformal cooling channel design. We understand Plastic Injection Molding.
We ensure the highest possible quality, reliability and consistency by managing every step of the value chain from powder production to the delivery of the finished part. Whether for a single part order or series production, our internal quality systems ensure we meet your requirements every time.
Design of Experiments, Statistical Process Control, and Process Monitoring form the basis of our printing methodology. Continued innovation from our voestalpine Additive Manufacturing Centres ensures our printing processes deliver superior material properties and tool performance every time.
This deep understanding of Additive Manufacturing and Injection Molding allows our customers to add value to their business from the first shot.
Our long history of developing high performance tool steels at BÖHLER and UDDEHOLM for the Die and Mold industries gives us a unique perspective on the needs of the Plastic Injection Mold industry when adopting Additive Manufacturing. Our powders and printed materials are designed to deliver improved performance over standard wrought material grades.
The highest quality materials, deliver superior tool life.
UDDEHOLM AM CORRAX and BÖHLER M789 AMPO are our premium corrosion resistant grades, designed specifically for Plastic Injection Molding applications and to outperform common AM steels such as 1.2709 (Maraging 300).
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BÖHLER W360 AMPO is our premium high hardness grade with no corrosion resistance. This proprietary grade has been designed to outperform traditional tool steels such as 1.2343 ESR (H11) and 1.2344 ESR (H13).
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Our support does not end with the delivery of additive manufactured inserts. It goes far beyond that. Every tool has a certain lifetime and fails at some point. We analyse and examine your failed tool inserts to determine the cause of damage.
For example, cracking can have many different root causes. Only those who understand the issue can take the necessary actions to extend the service life of the tool.
Images show cracks caused by corrosion
Top: Fracture surface and further cracks (longitudinal view; image from light optical microscope)
Bottom: light microscope image of several corrosion spots in cross section