Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Technology GmbH (SBOT), based in Ternitz, Austria, has successfully completed the first expansion phase of its metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) competence center. This development follows the installation of the Velo3D Sapphire XC metal AM machine, allowing the company to enhance its production capabilities, particularly for highly complex metal components across a variety of industries.
Pioneering Metal AM for Industry Demands
With the new expansion, SBOT is now able to produce components with dimensions up to 600 mm in diameter and 550 mm in height. This increased capacity is particularly advantageous for industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, and other demanding sectors that require precision and complex geometries in their components.
Potential applications for SBOT’s metal AM technology include lightweight housings, rocket engine elements for unmanned space flights, turbines, and heat exchangers. These components often feature intricate internal geometries with low angles, high aspect ratios, or large internal diameters, all of which are difficult—if not impossible—to manufacture using traditional methods. The advanced AM techniques employed by SBOT allow for the production of such geometries with minimal support material, boosting efficiency and reducing waste.
Advanced Material Processing and Post-Processing Expertise
SBOT also offers its customers a diverse range of metal powders for Additive Manufacturing. The company uses advanced depowdering systems to ensure the efficient removal of powder residues, particularly important for complex components with multi-layered cavities and channels.
With more than 100 years of experience in metal processing and over a decade of AM expertise, SBOT has consistently developed its capabilities. According to Franz Wurzer, Managing Director of SBOT, “Based on our expertise in processing difficult-to-machine materials for the oil and gas industry, we have advanced 3D printing technologies and successfully applied them to new areas. The expansion of our machine park for Additive Manufacturing marks another milestone in our journey.”
Comprehensive End-to-End Support for Clients
In addition to Additive Manufacturing, SBOT’s competence center boasts extensive precision post-processing capabilities such as CNC turning, milling, and heat and surface treatments. Material tests are also conducted in their in-house laboratory, ensuring that customers receive comprehensive support from the initial consultation and feasibility studies all the way to prototyping and serial production.
Looking ahead, SBOT plans to further expand its global strategy in the field of metal Additive Manufacturing. The company’s goal is to broaden its product range while optimizing existing capacities to meet the growing demands of various industries.
With these advancements, SBOT is well-positioned to lead in the field of metal AM, offering cutting-edge solutions for complex industrial applications. You can visit their website here.
Source: metal-am.com
