What is «Gsell 3D-Forming» and what is it used for?
«Gsell 3D-Forming» is the first additive manufacturing technology in the medical device industry for 3D-Printing of continuous carbon fibers. At high speed, a 3D printed blank is created layer by layer, and then processed with downstream processes to the final CFRP instrument.
What are the benefits of Gsell 3D-Forming?
Cost-efficiency – Compared to traditional manufacturing methods
Thanks to the additive manufacturing process, only enough material is used as is needed for processing. This reduces raw material costs enormously. Due the short cycle times in our process, the production can also be performed highly cost-effectively.
Success Story: External Fixation
Radiolucency – Better imaging in minimally invasive surgery using Radiolucent Instruments
The main advantage of the material is its combination of low density and high strength. CFRP has a density about five times lower than steel and is below the average density of bone. The result of this is the transparency of CFRP instruments in X-rays. Surgical staff get an unobstructed view of the area to be operated on and can perform surgeries more efficiently. With the «Gsell 3D-Forming» process in partnership with the innovative designs of our customers, we provide greater efficiency in surgery, especially in traumatology, joint replacement and spine surgery and support an improved patient outcomes and their higher quality of life.
Success Story: Trauma Instruments
Design – New opportunities in product development
The manufacturing process offers design and manufacturing opportunities for previously unrealizable components with high strength specifications – the limitations of standard manufacturing processes are overcome. The production of detailed and thin-section components with shape-specific fiber reinforcement is now possible. Finally, the instruments and components can be finished by pad printing and laser marking.
Success Story: Navigation
Sustainability – Short printing time and zero material waste
With «Gsell 3D-Forming», production becomes more sustainable. Additive manufacturing reduces waste. Material and energy can be used more economically and efficiently.
Success Story: Orthopedic Instruments
Maximum strength – High quality and dimensional stability
The process allows us to produce instruments completely free of voids, with a fiber volume of over 50 percent and a perfect finish. The manufactured components are characterized by maximum strength as a result of component-specific fiber reinforcement and high dimensional stability. The CFRP material has a low density and is correspondingly light.
Full production – Small quantities up to several thousand pieces
From prototype to full production - the process is ideal for the production of small quantities up to several thousand pieces. With increasing quantities, production costs can be continuously reduced.
Innovation means technical progress - but also transformation. New processes are continuously being created and products developed. Which of your instruments would benefit from X-ray transparency? Which instruments can benefit by a reduction of the weight? We offer you comprehensive support and personal consulting to use the innovative «Gsell 3D-Forming» to produce your instruments. Your ideas inspire our innovations - together we develop - together we are unique. «We'll find a solution!»
Short Summary:
The «Gsell 3D-Forming» brings a lot of benefits. The manufacturing process is fast, sustainable, reduces costs and opens new design opportunities. Additive manufacturing is constantly progressing and transforming the medical device industry. The «Gsell 3D-Forming» technology contributes significantly to this future oriented trend.
Would you like to learn more about the new manufacturing process «Gsell 3D-Forming»?
Patrick Fässler will be pleased to consult with you in a personal meeting.
PATRICK FÄSSLER
Head of Carbon Fiber Department
Member of the Management