CEAD launches a robotic extruder for additively manufacturing large parts

As a follow-up to its smaller E25 robotic extruder two years ago, CEAD recently introduced the E50. It extrudes 84 kg/hr. of PP-30GF (polypropylene reinforced with chopped-glass fiber, 30% by weight) at 60% of maximum speed. The E25 stand-alone printhead has a max output of 12 kg/hr.

Nozzle sizes for the E50 range from 8 to 20 mm dia. It comes with a material-transport mounting bracket and Siemens PLC. The E50 can be controlled by two signals—analog 0 to 10 V or digital 0 to 24 V—offering a robust system for a robotic arm or CNC gantry to control the extruder, reports the manufacturer.

The printhead can process high-performance fiber-reinforced materials like carbon-filled PESU (a polyethersulfone resin) and PEEK. An available option is a 400-l pellet dryer that fully integrates with the proprietary transport system.