Daimler choose Ricoh for Additive Manufacturing innovation

London/Wallisellen, 14 March 2017 – One of the world’s leading car manufacturers has become the latest adopter of Ricoh’s first branded Additive Manufacturing (AM) printer. Renowned for its use of innovative 3D printing solutions, Daimler has chosen the RICOH AM S5500P – a high-end polymer sintering production machine – to further advance its rapid prototyping by using innovative advanced materials. 

The Ricoh machine offers unique flexibility through a range of innovative SLS® materials, including high quality polypropylene (PP) and PA6GB. These materials are of strategic importance to manufacturers, especially those in the automotive industry. 3D printing PP and PA6GB will enable Daimler to produce prototype parts on demand while supporting its ability to develop new applications.

In addition to installing the machine, Ricoh will provide training and work closely together with Daimler engineers to support their continued innovation.

The RICOH AM S5500P features: 

• Substantial build size of 550 x 550 x 500mm 
• Advanced thermal control (the machine is able to keep temperature gradients small, which enables the printing of PP and PA6 materials) 
• Eight infrared lamps plus heating of the build chamber from all six sides (keeping the thermal gradients to a minimum) 
• Dual powder distribution
• High machine reliability (engineered for production)

Greg Plowman, Head of Additive Manufacturing Business, Ricoh Europe, said: “AM innovators are rightly demanding the highest quality of PP and PA6GB material printing. The RICOH AM S5500P allows Daimler to extend its impressive range of 3D printing applications, while ensuring that prototype parts are printed as needed to aid product development. This agreement forms another landmark in the AM industry, demonstrating the ambitions that can be realised through a shared commitment to innovation.”

For more information visit www.ricoh-europe.com/products/3D-printers.