Photo: Efaflex

The company "Materialise" produces prototypes and small series using 3D printing in a metal competence center for medical technology, the automotive industry, aerospace, but also art and design. No magic involved. But the additive manufacturing areas must be meticulously separated from one another.

For more than three decades, the company has been exploring new applications for 3D printing using components that are manufactured to a high standard and are extremely lightweight yet highly durable, for example, from titanium. Nine high-speed doors from Efaflex separate the various areas across a total area of ​​1,700 square meters to guarantee material-specific production. "This tight separation of the individual production zones is crucial for us," explains Technical Director Sascha Schmidt, describing the fundamental requirements for manufacturing the parts. "We always use the same metal on each machine. Mixing of the materials—no matter how slight—is unacceptable."

Photo: Materialise

The nine EFA-SRT Eco high-speed roll-up doors are therefore an important part of the building equipment.

Schmidt says he's seen many different goals during his career at various companies. Sure, there are budgets that need to be adhered to. "But you get what you pay for."

Thanks to the space-saving design of the EFA-SRT Eco, such as its very narrow side frames, no special structural preparations are necessary. A sophisticated guide system along the sides of the door leaf prevents unwanted air exchange caused by pressure differences and suction. The standard door leaf of the Efaflex roller door is fully transparent and comes standard with warning stripes.

Photo: Materialise

The EFA-ssT Essential external door, used for the delivery of materials and machinery, requires more than just speed; other characteristics are also important, says the Technical Director. "It's crucial for us that the doors are airtight to guarantee consistent air pressure inside. We also have climate-controlled rooms with temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius." The climate control system is combined with ventilation and the extraction of protective gases such as argon and nitrogen. "So it's a complex issue," Schmidt concludes.

Materialise is a dynamic high-tech company with more than 2,000 employees worldwide. The company is headquartered in Belgium, with German offices in Gilching near Munich and in Bremen. Materialise considers itself a global leader in additive manufacturing and the development of software solutions for additive manufacturing (AM).

www.efaflex.com