3DHeat–additive manufacturing of tools for glass molding

In the 3DHeat research project, Fraunhofer IPT is collaborating with partners to develop glass molding tools with integrated, contour-accurate temperature control. The researchers are combining two additive manufacturing processes to create a hybrid process. The tool body, which is made of cost-effective steel, is created using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). During construction, sensors and surface-level temperature control elements are integrated directly into the tool body. These enable precise, real-time temperature control during glass forming, eliminating the need for an external cooling system.

The glass contact zone is then added to the tool body using wire-based laser deposition welding. The material used is specially matched to the thermal expansion properties of the glass, minimising stress and breakage. When worn, the top metal layers can be easily removed and renewed by additive manufacturing, without having to replace the entire tool body. The project goal is to double the tool's lifespan.

This technology can also be transferred to other industries with high thermal requirements.

Here is a website about the project.

Contact:

Fraunhofer-Institut für Produktionstechnologie IPT

Thomas Derra M.Sc.

Steinbachstr. 17, 52074 Aachen

Telefon +49 241 8904-320

Mail: thomas.derra@ipt.fraunhofer.de