Caracol, a leader in large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM), is set to unveil its new robotic platform, Vipra AM, at Formnext in Frankfurt on 19 November 2024.
The company said in a media release that this new Direct Energy Deposition (DED) system aims to transform large-scale metal additive manufacturing with advanced automation, precision, and productivity.
Vipra AM leverages wire arc additive manufacturing to provide a flexible, all-in-one solution for producing complex metal parts across sectors like aerospace, automotive, and energy.
The system integrates hardware, software, and robotic control, enabling industrial manufacturers to improve efficiency and reduce waste. Vipra AM’s launch includes two distinct configurations tailored to meet specific industry needs:
- Vipra XQ (Extreme Quality) – Utilising Plasma Arc Deposition technology, Vipra XQ achieves exceptional precision, making it ideal for high-strength applications in aerospace and energy sectors.
- Vipra XP (Extreme Productivity) – Focused on high-speed production, Vipra XP supports aluminium and nickel-based materials, serving transportation and architectural applications where rapid turnaround and lightweight design are essential.
“With Vipra AM, we’ve leveraged the extensive know-how developed over years working on advanced process control and software for Large Format AM with thermoplastics and composites materials, to develop a proprietary cutting-edge metal platform that combines state-of-the-art hardware and software, with advanced robotic monitoring and automation,” said Francesco De Stefano, CEO of Caracol.
“Thanks to this innovative technology, we want to enlarge the possibilities of industrial manufacturers to produce their most complex large-scale projects.
Gianrocco Marinelli, Caracol’s Metal Additive Manufacturing Director, emphasised Vipra AM’s impact on current manufacturing challenges, including cost efficiency, reduced lead times, and lower material waste.
“Vipra AM introduces cutting-edge capabilities and complements existing processes, enabling hybrid production models that combine legacy techniques with advanced metal deposition to help manufacturers optimize production lines, reducing waste, accelerating lead times, and driving overall efficiency without overhauling their entire operations.”
Caracol’s booth at Formnext (C101 in Hall 12.1) will host the platform’s debut on 19 November, with a panel discussion featuring LFAM experts and a celebration event.
