Rigtools uncovers 3D printing technologies
The Danish company Rigtools had help from the Danish Technological Institute to test new 3D printing technology and investigate materials to optimize the company's production. This took place in a MADE Demonstration project, and the company developed a nearly finished prototype - now they are looking for a partner to print and test the prototype.
Rigtools manufactures specially designed tools for oil rigs worldwide, and they have faced challenges in optimizing equipment and machinery.
Therefore, the company explored the possibilities within 3D printing in a MADE Demonstration project.
In the project, the SME aimed to produce a component in titanium.
The project has helped Rigtools to identify the many possibilities within 3D printing. In collaboration with the Danish Technological Institute, the manufacturing company has developed a design for a prototype.
We have been pleased to be a part of this MADE project. It has given us the opportunity to develop technology and investigate materials that we otherwise would not have had the opportunity to
- Per Krogh, Rigtools
Nearly finished prototype
- We have a design for a prototype that is 95 percent complete. What we are currently working on is finding the right printing technology and partner to print our prototype, says Per Krogh, CTO and founder of Rigtools.
One of the metal 3D printing technologies that Rigtools has explored is 'Laser Powder Bed Fusion.' This technology uses powder as the printing material, and the powder is fused together with a laser.
- Some of the advantages are that it is a very mature technology with really good mechanical properties, says Morten Lisberg Jørgensen, consultant at the Danish Technological Institute.
The primary challenge that Rigtools is facing is that it could be difficult to find a partner with a sufficiently large machine capable of 3D printing the component.
About MADE Demonstration project
With a MADE Demonstration project, a small or medium-sized company can receive up to 100,000 DKK in support to solve a specific challenge in the company or test new technology in production.
By being connected with the Danish Technological Institute or another Danish RTO, they gain access to the technologies, knowledge, and skills necessary to address the specific challenge in the company.
This can be within materials or production. There are ongoing application deadlines for demonstration projects.
MADE Demonstration projects are made possible with support from the Danish Business Promotion Board.