Evonik launches its first software tool for 3D printing based on Castor technology
The tool helps manufacturers save costs by choosing the right additive manufacturing process depending on geometry, material and financial analysis of the part being designed.
The new software has been developed by Castor, an Israeli start-up in which Evonik’s Venture Capital invested in late 2019.
Castor offers a software technology that assesses a part’s printability, recommends the best printing material and estimates its cost and lead time. The technology helps manufacturers decide if and how to apply 3D printing to their production processes.
“With the software, broader adoption of 3D printing at a commercial scale is now possible,” said Thomas Große-Puppendahl, head of the innovation growth field additive manufacturing at Evonik. “That will offer us better insights into customer needs and preferences in order to develop new “ready-to-use” materials.”
COMBINING INTELLIGENCE WITH 3D PRINTING
Evonik has contributed its expertise in 3D printing materials and helped Castor to establish the software as a platform accessible for all industries. The specialty chemicals company has more than 20 years expertise in developing and manufacturing 3D printing materials. With Evonik’s software based on Castor technology, customers now have the opportunity to identify parts that could be printed with materials such as high-performance polymer powders and filaments. Evonik also produces a full range of additives that can modify material properties, for example, improving the flow ability or making the finished part more robust.
“The release of Evonik’s new software which is powered by Castor’s technology is a key step in expanding our product portfolio. We are thrilled about the opportunity to solidify the relationship with Evonik and look forward to materializing our vision to increase the amount of end-use parts manufactures using additive manufacturing.” said Omer Blaier, chief executive officer of Castor.
REALIZING THE FULL POTENTIAL OF ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
The start-up’s software is complementary to computer-aided design (CAD) solutions and customers can analyse their existing CAD files of large assemblies or of many single parts, simultaneously. More specifically, the software performs a comprehensive technical and economic analysis which results in a simple report showing the break-even point for additive manufacturing versus traditional manufacturing methods. This allows manufacturers to decide whether to prefer 3D printing over traditional manufacturing methods and empowers engineers to identify parts which can be defined as the “lower hanging fruits,” leading to cost reduction and time savings.
SOFTWARE ACCESS
- castor.evonik.com
LEARN MORE ABOUT EVONIK FOR 3D PRINTING
- 3d-printing.evonik.com
ABOUT CASTOR
CASTOR is a decision support software which helps manufacturers to reduce the risks and accelerate the process of identifying opportunities for using industrial 3D printing. The software conducts CAD file analysis resulting in an automatic report on a part-by-part basis which includes feedback whether it is beneficial to use 3D printing, or not. The report also includes a recommendation on the most suitable technology and material for the 3D printing while maintaining the system requirements. It estimates the cost and lead-time and connects the manufacturer to a service bureau which can print and supply the part according to the requirements.
ABOUT EVONIK
Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The focus on more specialty businesses, customer-oriented innovative prowess and a trustful and performance-oriented corporate culture form the heart of Evonik’s corporate strategy. They are the lever for profitable growth and a sustained increase in the value of the company. Evonik benefits specifically from its customer proximity and leading market positions. Evonik is active in over 100 countries around the world. In fiscal 2018, the enterprise with more than 32,000 employees generated sales of €13.3 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.15 billion from continuing operations.
Evonik regards China as one of the driving forces of the global economy and we consequently endeavor to grow our business here. The company now employs over 2,500 employees and has in total of 10 production sites in China.
Disclaimer
In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.