Ricoh works with Solvay to push forward PA6 powders in 3D printing

Ricoh Europe, London, 17 November 2016 – Ricoh is evolving its 3D printing capabilities by working with Solvay, the pioneer of polyamide 6 (known as PA6) powders compatible with additive manufacturing, to make use of Sinterline® Technyl® PA6.

By joining their efforts and long-proven knowledge, Ricoh and Solvay proposes a unique offer to the market, combining RICOH AM S5500P’s extended possibilities, and Sinterline®  Technyl® PA6 GB (Glass Beads) high performance powders. RICOH AM S5500P is the largest machine that is able to print Sinterline® Technyl® PA6GB, a material that is of strategic importance in the automotive and aerospace industries. This machine is one of only a few globally able to print higher temperature polyamides. The combination of these two innovative solutions enables manufacturers to create short-runs and functional prototypes with performance comparable to PA6 injection molded parts.

Greg Plowman, Director, European AM Business Group, Ricoh Europe, says: “The potential of PA6 GB allows us to evolve the range of applications the RICOH AM S5500P can offer to our customers. The intrinsic features of PA6 powders allow functional prototyping and are ideal for small series applications where part performance and durability are essential criteria.”

Ralph Rissé, Sinterline® Global Business Development Manager, Solvay Performance Polyamides, adds: “Today, speeding up the development process of new applications across a wide range of industries, especially automotive, is crucial. The rapid prototyping of demanding parts that are closer to the final materials used for serial production provides OEMs and tiers an overwhelming design advantage when facing global competition to get products to market.”

RICOH Rapid Fab facility

As part of its additive manufacturing business, centered on 3D printers, Ricoh Europe recently established its first RICOH Rapid Fab facility on the continent. Located in Telford, UK, the facility has been created to enable customers to benefit from Ricoh’s expertise in areas such as consultancy, training, design, manufacturing, post process finishing and measurement & inspection services. The facility also hosts demonstrations, giving customers an early look at the latest additive manufacturing innovations from Ricoh.

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

| About Solvay Performance Polyamides |

Solvay Performance Polyamides is the global specialist in polyamide-based engineering plastics, with more than 60 years of experience in the development, manufacture and marketing of a complete range of high-performance materials under the Technyl® brand for demanding applications in automotive, consumer goods and electrical markets. With a growth strategy bolstered by thirteen production sites worldwide, the Global Business Unit employs its expertise and innovation capabilities in order to serve the needs of its customers more closely through a global network of technical and R&D centers.

Learn more about the Technyl® brand at http://www.technyl.com and follow us on Twitter @Technyl.

For further information, please visit www.solvay.com