DMG MORI, a manufacturer of machine tools, and Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG, a supplier for rolling bearings, linear guides and drive technology, have signed a cooperation agreement to develop additive manufacturing processes for rolling bearing components.
“Both partners complement each other perfectly to drive the future of machine tools as well as the continuing development of rolling bearing technology,” said Dr. Stefan Spindler, CEO Industrial of Schaeffler AG. “Our joint ‘Machine Tool 4.0’ development project has already demonstrated this with great success. Our cooperation in additive manufacturing means another very important strategic area for the future.”
Laser Deposition Welding for Rolling Bearing Components
The basis for the joint development work will be a Lasertec 65 3D made by DMG MORI, a five-axis machining center including a laser metal deposition welding unit. The machine will be used at Schaeffler.
The goal of the project is to develop laser metal deposition welding so that it can be used for the flexible manufacture of rolling bearing components for prototypes and for small batch sizes. Its focus is on process issues as well as on the materials used and their suitability for the process.
Read more: Additive Manufacturing and Machine Tool 4.0