Top 5 FAQs About 3D Printed Technical Ceramics

Smartech/Steinbach’s Technical Ceramics Department produces highly precise ceramic components of impeccable quality in every detail and complying with the highest quality standards. The ceramics are created using an additive manufacturing method called Lithography based Ceramic Manufacturing (LMC), also called 3D printing. Due to the LCM-technology based processing, we can manufacture the smallest components and complex geometries in perfect precision, impossible to produce in a conventional way. Where in the past these additive manufacturing methods were only suitable for prototyping, we are now able to manufacture prototypes that meet large-scale production quality standards as well as small and medium-sized series.

Five Frequently Asked Questions About 3D Printed Technical Ceramics
Here are five of the most frequently asked questions:

1. What are the advantages of using 3D additive manufacturing in ceramics?
One of the main advantages of 3D printing is the design-driven construction process in which complex geometries like internal structures, cavities, and undercuts can be realized. In addition, the tool-less manufacturing of components shortens the development and production time. Additive production allows for a quick adjustment of the CAD-model without the need for adjusting the tools.

2. Why should I consider replacing plastic parts with ceramic components?
Ceramic has a smooth surface that works very effectively in extreme temperatures, high voltage, as well as high-pressure environments. Technical ceramics are low-maintenance, stain-resistant, biocompatible and have a long product lifespan. Ceramic is also able to resist corrosion and negative effects from exposure to chemicals.

3. Can I order just one single part or do I need to order large batches?
Smartech/Steinbach can help you with creating ceramic parts in both small-batch and large-scale production – even if you need just one prototype part. Irrespective of the size of your order, our custom ceramic components will be high-quality products at an affordable cost. Smartech/Steinbach is committed to providing customers with individualized customer service, significant cost savings, and a rapid return on investment.

4. Will ceramic parts maintain their structure under high heat or high pressure?
Due to the advancements in the production of ceramic materials, ceramic parts have a higher hardness than technical tools made from other materials. Ceramic is able to withstand high temperatures without compromising mechanical and electrical properties.

Ceramic is an inorganic and non-metallic material. It has a high thermal resistance. Ceramic can sustain extremely high temperatures (1600°C/2900°F) while still maintaining an effective resistance to wear and tear and even corrosion.

5. Which industries can use ceramic components?
Ceramic components are already used in a wide variety of industries and applications. Because of its characteristics (low density, insulating effect, low thermal expansion, high corrosion- and temperature resistance, extreme hardness and good tribological qualities) ceramic parts are used in medical technology, the automobile industry, analysis and measurement equipment, microreactors / microfluidic applications, micro-electronics, plasma technology, high-temperature applications, aerospace, chemistry laboratories and many more sectors.

Smartech/Steinbach Technical Ceramics
Steinbach AG in Germany and its US partner Smartech International have been pioneers in the field of additive manufacturing of ceramic parts. We have expansive experience in producing high-quality ceramic products.

Contact us today to discuss your functional requirements, custom geometric specifications, quantities, and other information to address your specific needs. The team at Smartech/Steinbach can help determine and design the best product for your needs.