SCHAFFHAUSEN, SWITZERLAND — GF Machining Solutions has entered the additive manufacturing market through a strategic agreement with EOS, targeting metal inserts for the mold and die sector.
GF and EOS will integrate additive manufacturing machines to print metal mold inserts, including software and linkage with downstream machine tools and measuring devices. Additive manufacturing, also known as 3-D printing, allows mold makers to direct cooling closer to the part surface, for faster cooling and shorter cycle times.
GF Machining Solutions, part of the Schaffhausen-based Georg Fischer AG, makes metal-cutting machines for molds, such as electric discharge machines, milling machines and 3-D laser surface texturing equipment. EOS, the additive manufacturing equipment maker, is based in Krailling, Germany.
The companies will roll out their first joint mold solutions at the EMO metalworking show in Milan, Italy, Oct. 5-10.
“The cooperation allows us to increase the value for customers by integrating conventional and additive technologies,” said EOS founder and CEO Hans Langer. “This is a large step towards seamless production and we join forces with a strong and experienced partner.”
GF's CEO, Yves Serra, said the partnership offers GF Machining Solutions' customer base “a unique set of technologies.”
In the United States, GF Machining Solutions is based in Lincolnshire, Ill. EOS of North America Inc. is in Novi, Mich.