Caracol Launches Vipra AM at Formnext 2024

Large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) provider, Caracol, is introducing Vipra AM robotic platform will be unveiled at Formnext (booth C101 Hall 12.1) and aims to transform how large-format metal components are made. 

Vipra AM is a robotic large-scale direct energy deposition platform that leverages wire arc additive manufacturing processes, developed into a hardware, software, and automation turnkey system. The platform was created to expand LFAM’s possibilities to a range of applications.

“At Caracol, we believe that the future of manufacturing lies in combining a strong application focus with advanced innovative technologies that reshape the capabilities of industrial production lines”, states Francesco De Stefano, CEO of Caracol AM. “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.”

Caracol is unveiling two new configurations of Vipra:

Vipra XQ (Extreme Quality) leverages Plasma Arc Deposition technology to produce components with finishing and precision. It is best suited for applications that require strength and precision, and can process a broad range of metals, including stainless steels and titanium alloys. The system is made for large-scale, high-strength, high-integrity parts for sectors such as aerospace and energy.

Vipra XP (Extreme Productivity) is focused on maximizing productivity, minimizing operating costs in the manufacturing process of complex large-scale metal projects. Its throughput and ability to print also aluminum and nickel-based materials make the system ideal for parts where lead times and lightweight are critical, according to Caracol.

Vipra AM was built to produce successfully advanced applications such as load bearing finished parts, lightweight structures, high-temperature, high durability autoclave and curing molds, cladding, repair, and on-demand spare parts, the company reports.

“The launch of Vipra AM represents a significant breakthrough for the metal additive manufacturing industry,” says Gianrocco Marinelli, Metal Additive Manufacturing Director at Caracol. “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.”

Vipra AM will be officially unveiled at Formnext in Frankfurt, Germany, on November 19, 2024, at 4:00 PM. Visit Caracol’s booth C101 in Hall 12.1 November. 19-22.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.