FAQ – Frequently asked questions about SiLiparts® 3D-printed components

Ceramic 3D printing refers to additive manufacturing processes in which engineering ceramics such as aluminium oxide, zirconia, silicon carbide or silicon nitride are built up layer by layer on the basis of CAD data and then sintered. Unlike traditional processes such as pressing or injection moulding, this method allows complex geometries – such as undercuts, internal cooling channels or lattice structures – to be produced without the need for complex moulds.

Ceramic 3D printing is used in the following areas, amongst others:

• Industry: Insulators and wear parts
• Medical technology: Biocompatible implants
• High-temperature technology: Burner components
• Research: Functional models and prototypes

Ceramic 3D printing enables the creation of complex geometries that are difficult or impossible to produce using conventional manufacturing processes. These include, for example:

• Undercuts
• Internal channels
• Free-form surfaces
• Lattice structures
• Topology-optimised components

This allows functions to be integrated directly into the component and enables new design solutions to be realised.

Further information on the design possibilities offered by ceramic 3D printing, as well as illustrative examples of components, can be found on our website under ‘Products > 3D-printed components’.

SiLi combines various ceramic 3D printing technologies in order to offer the right solution for every application. The following processes are used:

• SiLiparts® High Precision: Stereolithography (SLA) and material jetting for high-precision small parts with the finest details and high surface quality.
• SiLiparts® Essential: Extrusion-based manufacturing for robust, large-volume functional components.

By combining these technologies, it is possible to manufacture both high-precision small parts and large-volume functional components cost-effectively.

We offer 3D printing using the high-performance ceramics aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃), zirconia (ZrO₂) and ATZ (alumina-toughened zirconia). These materials are characterised by their different properties and applications:

• Aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃): Particularly suitable for applications with high demands in terms of wear resistance, electrical insulation and temperature resistance.
• Zirconia (ZrO₂): Offers high strength, fracture toughness and biocompatibility.
• ATZ (Alumina Toughened Zirconia): Combines the advantages of both materials and is suitable for demanding applications where both high load-bearing capacity and wear resistance are required.

The achievable tolerances and surface finishes depend on the chosen printing process, the material and the component geometry. The two SiLiparts® product ranges differ in this respect:

• SiLiparts® High Precision: Enables the production of particularly fine structures with high dimensional accuracy and very smooth surfaces.
• SiLiparts® Essential: Is designed for robust, large-volume functional components and offers a level of manufacturing quality tailored to these requirements.

We would be happy to assess the requirements of your component and recommend the most suitable manufacturing process.

As no tools or moulds are required, ceramic 3D printing can be economically viable even for single parts. The process offers advantages over conventional manufacturing methods, particularly for prototypes, small batches and complex geometries.

Ceramic 3D printing can also be a viable option for larger production runs if the design freedom offered by additive manufacturing is utilised to significantly improve the performance or functionality of the components compared with conventionally manufactured solutions.

The cost of a ceramic 3D-printed component depends on various factors. These include, in particular, the material, the printing process, the component size, the geometry and the quantity, as well as the requirements regarding precision, surface quality and post-processing.

We would be happy to review your component requirements and provide you with a personalised estimate of the expected costs.

To carry out a quotation and draw up a tender, we usually require the following files:

• 3MF or STL file: As a 3D model of your component.
• STEP file: May also be useful for technical assessment.
• Technical drawing: Including details of tolerances, critical dimensions, surface finish requirements and other component-specific requirements.

These documents enable a well-founded assessment of printability and the selection of the appropriate printing process.

The production time for a 3D-printed ceramic component depends on the printing process selected, the material, the component geometry, and the requirements for precision and surface quality. In addition to the actual printing process, downstream production steps such as debinding, sintering and, where applicable, post-processing also influence the overall lead time.

We would be happy to review your component data and provide you with a personalised estimate of the expected production time.

Do you have any further questions about ceramic 3D printing or our SiLiparts® components? Please feel free to contact us – our team will advise you personally on your requirements and assist you in selecting the right manufacturing solution. Contact SiLi team