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Gutenburg would be amazed by HVPF, the High Volume Print Forming process developed by EoPlex Technologies.

Click the image above to view a slide show detailing the High Volume Print Forming process.

Parts are designed in layers, and modified screen printers are used to deposit special “inks” carrying ceramic, metallic or polymer materials to millions of locations. The materials are then cured, fused, sintered, co-fired or bonded together during post-processing steps.

HVPF is intended for the production of meso-scale parts ranging from a few millimeters up to 100mm, and can be used to fabricate internal features as small as 100 μm. The process allows hundreds or thousands of small, complex 3-D structures to be produced simultaneously.

MICROmanufacturing Contributing Editor George Weimer recently interviewed EoPlex CEO Arthur Chait. They discussed EoPlex’s HVPF process, the company’s plans and the need to bridge the gap between the nano and macro worlds.

Below is an excerpt from the interview. Just click on a question to hear Chait's response.

Arthur Chait

MICROmanufacturing: How does EoPlex’s HVPF process work, and how does it differ from other processes? (.wmv)

(Or click here for a .mov format.)

MICROmanufacturing: What kinds of components will EoPlex be producing in the next 5, 10, 20 years? (.wmv)

(Or click here for a .mov format.)

MICROmanufacturing: EoPlex doesn’t sell HVPF machines or license the process. Why? (.wmv)

(Or click here for a .mov format.)

MICROmanufacturing: In speeches and papers, you’ve discussed the gap that exists between the nano and macro worlds. “Between these two extremes,” you wrote, “is a gap where engineers struggle to make low-cost devices with complex 3-D structures containing multiple materials that are ‘Just Plain Miniature.’ ” What are the limitations in terms of materials? (.wmv)

(Or click here for a .mov format.)

MICROmanufacturing: You’ve also said that non-assembly types of technologies are needed. What do you mean? (.wmv)

(Or click here for a .mov format.)