GF enters the industrial 3D printing business

The two companies have agreed to focus on the mold and die sector. They will develop exclusive solutions for mold makers, a market in which GF holds a leading position thanks to its EDM, high speed milling and automation technologies.

The additive manufacturing technology offers for such customers the possibility to generate metal inserts featuring cooling close to the surface, thus allowing for a shorter mold cooling sequence and therefore a much faster plastic injection cycle time.

GF and EOS will undertake the integration of the additive manufacturing machines into the production process of mold inserts, including the necessary software and automation link with downstream machine-tools and measuring devices.

“We welcome very much this strategic partnership”, says GF CEO Yves Serra. “GF and EOS complement each other very well to offer the large customer base of GF Machining Solutions a unique set of technologies.”

“The cooperation allows us to increase the value for customers within the mold and die sector, by integrating conventional and additive technologies. This is a large step towards seamless production and we join forces with a strong and experienced partner.” says EOS founder and CEO, Dr. Hans J. Langer.

The first solutions will be shown at the EMO 2015 to take place early October in Milan (Italy).

Founded in 1989, EOS is the global technology and quality leader for high-end Additive Manufacturing (AM) solutions. EOS is the partner of choice for industrial 3D printing processes offering modular solutions including systems, software, materials, technical and consulting services.

GF Machining Solutions provides machine tools, automation solutions and customer services for the production of molds, dies and high value-added metal parts. The division has manufacturing facilities in Switzerland, Sweden and China, and serves its customers through its own sales companies in more than 50 countries.