Zetamix tailor made part for efficient experiment

SPMS (Structures, Propriétés et Modélisation des Solides) is a research laboratory linked to CentraleSupelec and the CNRS. The lab focusses on discovering the future leading materials for energy, electronical industry and health industry.

As a requirement for a coating formulation test, the lab was searching for a tailor-made part. The experiment consisted in 3 steps: First, a robot grabs some little glass samples. Then, the robot dip-coat these samples in a small tray and dispose them finally on a heating plate.

PROBLEM

For this experiment to be carried in the safest possible conditions and to avoid accidents, the final step required specific heat resistant parts: the heating plate has to be supported and can not be directly in contact with the lab bench.

Because this support  has to be custom-made, and to resist to run that can reach 1000 °C, the lab automatically turned to Zetamix ‘s expertise in 3D printing.

In the picture, the heating plate is on the bottom left while the robot carries the experiment.

 

SOLUTION

 Thanks to the Alumina filaments, the laboratory team succeeded to model and produce the perfect heating plate holder.

The designed plate was particularly equipped with holes on its support to not only fix fours lands but to also fix a thermocouple and the heating plate and supply it with needed electricity.

Moreover, the support perfectly fit the plate shape that is enclosed by the alumina holder, granting the perfect support.

The picture on the right : The Alumina holder supporting the heating plate, taken from below.

The parts multiple holes and intricate structure makes it expensive and slow to produce with regular processes. Moreover, outsourced, this part would take months, from explaining the needs, to creating the holder’s design and producing it by the partner.

Zetamix’s technology and expertise can make the process possible in less than a week, while granting perfect performances and quality.

Picture on the left: The heating plate being supported by the Alumina holder, taken from above.

Lab’s contacts: T. Martin, G. Dezanneau

Zetamix