Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is a transformational technology enabling the creation of complex objects, which are built in layers from a 3D drawing.
Originally used in prototyping, it is now redefining industries due to the speed in which high strength and durable components can be created without large investments in moulds and lengthy manufacturing times.
Our latest case study delves into a project enquiry we received for a peristaltic metering pump where the customer required a solution to transfer nanocomposites for stereolithography or 3D printing.
They wanted to recirculate a very abrasive high performance composite ceramic resin from a container to a machine which manufactured 3D Printed parts. The pump had to run constantly whenever the SLA printing machine was not being used. It would filter out any cured debris floating in the tank to ensure smooth and uninterrupted operation.
It would also pull out any ceramic filler from the bottom of the tank, to maintain a proper mixture and stop it settling out.
The pump also had to be self-priming and have automated operation so that operators could easily control start-up, stopping and pump flow rate.
Preserving the nanocomposite fluid
A key factor was the high cost of nanocomposites which can be anything from £50 to £75 per litre.
So the client stressed that it was crucial that everything possible was done to preserve the quality of the fluid and ensure its longevity and cost-effectiveness. This would include keeping it moving to prevent hardening, but at low shear. As well as maintaining fluid quality by filtering and removing any waste solid particles.
This would all help to ensure that when it’s finally 3D printed, each piece would have as few imperfections as possible, so it wouldn’t have to go to waste – which would be very costly.
The potential client saw that we had specific experience in pumping nanocomposites and got in touch to see if we could help.
Important information from the client
The client had already carried out some research and visited our website.
They had seen our AMP16 control pump on there and wondered if the same technology could be applied to a different size of pump.
The AMP16 is an intelligently controlled metering pump which uses peristaltic pump technology to guarantee easy and precise metering of viscous, gaseous and shear-sensitive fluids containing particles.
So what pump did we select?
North Ridge Pumps are the UK’s largest pump supplier with over 25 years successful trading and growth.
In fact, we’re specialists at specifying pumps for a huge range of applications, and we’re not limited to specifying just one pump type or technology.
We draw on our expert knowledge and wide-ranging experience to bring together the best solution for every client, not just an off-the-shelf product. We pick the right pump for every project offering our client the best long-term option.
In fact, we did have a pump with the same technology as our AMP16 control pump, but in a larger size.
It was our FMP30 peristaltic pump, which has been designed and developed to enable users to achieve straightforward, low maintenance metering while also automating the process.
This innovative pump has an integrated control feature which enables users to:
- Batch control the flow and automatically stop it after dosing a set amount of fluid
- Display the current flow rate
- Reverse the flow and adjust the speed of operation
- Calibrate transfer rates according to fluid viscosity
- Record worked hours for better control and monitoring
In addition, a built-in hose leakage sensor spots when the hose has ruptured and shuts down the pump automatically to prevent leakage and waste of chemicals.
Once the hose wear life is known, the unit can also be configured to warn users before the hose ruptures. For example, if the hose perishes after 2,000 hours, a warning alert will be displayed to replace the hose before the 2,000 hours are up.
Our specification
The pump we finally selected for this client would be able to transfer between 468 and 1,637 litres of nanocomposite ceramic resin per hour and operate up to 8 bar, thanks to the 1.25” quarter connections and efficient 0.75Kw motor.
It has a natural rubber hose which provides the best resistance against the abrasive particles. This incorporates a hose leakage detector which automatically stops the pump if the hose should fail, ensuring that valuable and expensive nanocomposite fluid is not lost.
Are you looking for more control over your process, to reduce chemical use or move over to automation? Speak to North Ridge Pumps – we’ll be happy to help.
