3D Printing and Metal Replacement: how can they be sustainable?
At Roboze we aim to accelerate the world's transition towards sustainable manufacturing. We want to do it through the innovation of our sustainable 3D printing solutions and by stimulating the creativity of every single Robozer in the world.
Since our foundation we have activated initiatives aimed at accelerating the world's transition towards a more rational and sustainable production. Starting from our specialization in Metal Replacement, we are able to offer the possibility of lightening parts in sectors such as aerospace and defense, transport and automation, where mass reduction plays a key role in determining efficiency. In these industries the lower the weight, the lower the energy or fuel consumption and the higher the efficiency of the processes: suffice it to say that in the aviation sector, every kilo saved leads to 73 tons of CO2 emissions less per year!
Sustainable 3D printing: the example of Roboze Circular Economy
Obviously this wasn't enough and, together, we researched new models to also prevent any damage that is not tangible in the present and which could become tomorrow's problem. We have therefore launched a Circular Economy program aimed at recycling the waste material produced in 3D printing. First, Roboze is working on minimizing the amount of supports needed by educating the mindset of designers and engineers to Design for Additive Manufacturing; secondly, we are strongly pushing our research for the recovery of processing waste and disused parts, processed with the super polymers and composite materials, to be re-entered on the market for the benefit of end users and above all of the environment.
However, sustainability in 3D printing is not just about the environment. It also includes human, social and economic factors. This is the reason behind the recognition of this great topic as an added value by many manufacturing companies around the world.
Roboze 3D Distributed Manufacturing for a sustainable production
The Roboze Distributed Manufacturing model fits naturally into this context. This model offers economic advantages and tangible improvements also in terms of sustainable industrial production. Anyone can use digital drawings to manufacture spare parts on demand and on site: this eliminates or minimizes inventory waste, cuts down on unsold finished products, and produces only what is needed.
The model favors reshoring and leads to shorter and simpler supply chains, localized production and distribution models that enable benefits such as the control of materials, energy consumption and emissions for the transport of goods.
Roboze Bio-based PA material for sustainable 3D printing
Last but not least, we have laid the foundations for launching a cutting-edge research center that will house new materials science, chemistry and nanotechnology laboratories. The goal is to advance rapidly in the development of ecologic materials for 3D printing, as alternative to petroleum-based super polymers, by favoring the use of bio-based reinforcing fibers and matrices.
The first result is our Roboze Bio-based PA: Roboze high-performance bio-based material filled with natural fibers for FFF 3D printing.
We will not stop. We have clearly defined our vision and all our efforts will strive towards this single goal. We must all feel part of a global ecosystem to take care of.
The future belongs to those who know how to anticipate it, today.