EOS and GF Machining target moldmaking in strategic cooperation

EOS GmbH (Krailling, Germany), a global developer of high-end additive manufacturing (AM) solutions for metal 3D printing, has entered into a strategic cooperation with GF Machining Solutions (Schaffhausen, Switzerland) focusing on the mold and die sector. The companies have agreed to develop novel solutions for moldmakers, a market in which GF holds a leading position thanks to its EDM, high-speed milling and automation technologies, according to a news release from EOS.

AM technology allows users to generate metal inserts with cooling close to the surface of the mold (conformal cooling), thus shortening the mold-cooling sequence and accelerating the plastic injection cycle.

"The cooperation allows us to increase value for customers by integrating conventional and additive technologies," says EOS founder and CEO, Dr. Hans J. Langer. "This is a large step toward seamless production, and we join forces with a strong and experienced partner."

GF and EOS will undertake integration of the AM machines into the production process of mold inserts, including the necessary software and automation link with downstream machine tools and measuring devices.

"We welcome this strategic partnership," commented GF CEO Yves Serra. "GF and EOS complement each other very well to offer the large customer base of GF Machining Solutions a unique set of technologies."