REFACTOR3D - Qualification of high value-added metal components through DED remanufacturing processes
The REFACTOR3D project aims to promote the remanufacturing of metal parts through DED (Directed Energy Deposition) technology, a form of 3D printing that allows recovering and improving components at the end of their useful life. Instead of manufacturing new parts, the project seeks to reuse and optimize existing ones, thus contributing to a more efficient and circular industry.
The project focuses on the mold and matrix sector, but its results can also be applied to other industries such as transport or heavy machinery. REFACTOR3D aims to overcome the current challenges of this technology, such as the lack of specific design strategies, rating protocols and data on the properties of materials.
To achieve this, a comprehensive adaptive design strategy for remanufacturing (DfRem), new simulation systems and advanced DED equipment (with substrate preheating and hot wire control), and industrial quality protocols will be developed to guarantee the performance of the remanufactured parts.
The project will demonstrate its industrial viability with the pilot case of the company MAXIMETAL, with the collaboration of MELTIO, manufacturer of DED technology. Overall, REFACTOR3D will promote new circular business models, reduce CO2 emissions and promote the creation of employment and local production, extending the useful life of metal materials and reducing dependence on external resources.
Project reference: CPP2024-011750
Program and call: Public-Private Collaboration Project, State Subprogram for Knowledge Transfer, State Program to promote scientific and technical research and its transfer
Participants: CIM UPC, ACERINOX, NATIONAL CENTER FOR METALLURGICAL RESEARCH (CENIM), POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF CATALONIA
