This paper introduces Exentis' Additive Screen Printing technology, an innovative technology based on traditional screen printing. Technology enables the production of ultra-fine structures and micro-precise components, with particular advantages in the field of filtration.

The process involves applying material as paste through a screen onto a workpiece carrier, building components layer by layer. This method allows for the creation of complex structures with channel widths as small as 125 μm, wall thicknesses from 75 μm, and surface roughness levels of 2 μm.

A key application highlighted is the production of microfilters for diesel engine emission control systems. Conventional microfilters, stamped from woven fabric, often suffer from fraying, reducing their effectiveness over time. In contrast, Exentis technology produces filters with greater strength and no fraying, resulting in improved quality and longevity.

Exentis Additive Screen Printing Technology enables true mass production - an advantage over other additive manufacturing technologies - resulting in economic benefits in the production of components that were previously impossible or difficult to produce. The benefits of the technology can be maximized for components with the following specifications: base areas of 1-50 mm, heights of 0.1-50 mm, only few changes of the geometry in the z-axis of a part (0-5). Sintered wall thicknesses ≥70 microns, production quantities from 5’000 to over 5 million parts per year. The Exentis technology allows for functional integration, such as incorporating cooling channels directly during manufacturing, reducing production steps and costs.

A typical application manufactured with Exentis technology are microfilters. These filters are used to reduce emissions in diesel engines. With Exentis Additive Screen Printing technology, the filters can be manufactured more solid, which enables a longer service life and thus reduces costs. Due to the mass production capability...