Laempe Mössner Sinto GmbH (‘Laempe’), a global leader in core production solutions, is expanding its portfolio with a groundbreaking innovation in additive manufacturing. The company has successfully developed and delivered a fully automated, high-volume 3D printing line for sand core production to the BMW Group foundry in Landshut, Germany. This milestone was achieved in collaboration with BMW and R.Scheuchl GmbH. The BMW Group is already utilizing the technology to manufacture printed molds for its new six-cylinder engine components. With this advancement, Laempe positions itself as the only manufacturer providing a comprehensive, all-in-one solution for the evolving needs of the foundry industry.
The six 3D printers delivered to BMW feature cutting-edge automation, eliminating the need for manual intervention in processes such as 3D measurement and core removal. This innovative technology, production-ready since 2016, was developed at Laempe’s technology hub in Schopfheim (Baden-Württemberg) and manufactured in Barleben (Saxony-Anhalt). Primarily designed for foundries, the solution is now available for wider market adoption. With the successful integration of the 3D printing line at BMW, Laempe is officially launching sales of its 3D printing solutions.
Laempe Unveils the World’s Most Efficient 3D Sand Printer
Laempe’s 3D sand printers set a new benchmark for efficiency, featuring bidirectional printing and high-speed capabilities. Designed specifically for casting applications, the printers adhere to established industry standards while considering the entire value chain—from raw material storage and mold preparation to printing, unpacking, cleaning, and measurement.
A key advantage of the Laempe 3D printing line is its open-system design, allowing customers to source raw materials from multiple suppliers rather than being locked into proprietary options. Additionally, each individual printer is built with scalability in mind, enabling seamless expansion into a fully automated solution at competitive costs. This modular approach is unique in the market. To further enhance efficiency, Laempe has developed the Laempe Printing Wizard Software, a powerful tool that optimizes slicing, scaling, and morphing for print jobs.
Significant Investment in Innovation
The development of this groundbreaking technology involved a mid-double-digit million euro investment, primarily financed through a partnership with BMW Group, along with substantial contributions from Laempe’s own capital. Reflecting on the journey, Mössner acknowledges the challenges faced along the way:
‘As with any project of this size, there were uncertainties, challenges and uncertain schedules along the way - together with the customer, we were able to solve all of these tasks. We would particularly like to thank our employees and the BMW Group for the successful outcome,’
BMW Group Highlights Laempe’s Innovation and Efficiency
BMW Group has recognized Laempe’s outstanding technological performance, particularly in the highly automated 3D printing line. The car manufacturer praises the system’s exceptional speed and bidirectional printing process, which ensures both precision and efficiency. With its advanced automation, the Laempe system meets the rigorous demands of high-volume production. This combination of cutting-edge technology and process stability delivers substantial added value for BMW, reinforcing Laempe’s position as a trusted partner in manufacturing.
Mössner further emphasizes the broader impact of this innovation:
‘With our innovative 3D printing technology, we expect that many more applications can be economically transferred from classic core shooting to additive manufacturing in the future. We can therefore offer our customers and partners a real competitive advantage and a forward-looking solution that will open up new growth opportunities for us. We are the only supplier to develop and operate both core shooters and 3D printers, which means we know the cost structures of both technologies inside out.’
Hybrid Core Production: Maximum Flexibility for Foundries
Laempe’s innovative approach enables hybrid core production, offering foundries the flexibility to choose between classic shot cores, additively printed cores, or a combination of both. Furthermore, through its INACORE joint venture with R.Scheuchl GmbH, Laempe provides a pay-per-part model. INACORE, based in Ergoldsbach (Bavaria), has been operating both core shooters and a Laempe 3D printer for three years, supplying numerous customers with either printed or shot cores.
About Laempe Mössner Sinto GmbH
Laempe Mössner Sinto GmbH is the global leader in core production technology for the foundry industry, offering a comprehensive range of products and services that cover every aspect of modern core manufacturing. Headquartered in Barleben/Meitzendorf, Saxony-Anhalt, the company is a full-service solution provider with a strong tradition of engineering excellence.
With a workforce of 350 employees, Laempe operates an ultra-modern production facility in Barleben, along with branches in Schopfheim (Black Forest) and Mannheim. The company also has subsidiaries in Pune (India) and Beijing (China), reinforcing its global presence.
For more information, visit:
www.laempe.com