METROM

METROM is a German manufacturing technology company specializing in advanced CNC machines and industrial 3D printers. For over two decades, the company has produced its signature Pentapod CNC machines, which are based on 5-axis parallel kinematics and a distinctive icosahedron machine housing. This design, invented by Dr. Michael Schwaar, provides high stiffness and accuracy, allowing for 5-sided machining and even 7-axis simultaneous machining when combined with a rotary table. The Pentapod machines are available in different series, including a mobile PM-Series designed for flexible, on-site machining of large components, which is particularly useful in industries like power generation.

Expanding on its expertise in parallel kinematics, METROM developed the SEAMHex industrial 3D printer. The SEAMHex utilizes a hexapod printing bed for 6-axis printing and can achieve speeds up to 1 m/s. It employs Screw Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (SEAM) technology, which processes low-cost standard plastic pellets instead of more expensive filaments. The system features a patented bypass nozzle for precise material flow control and can achieve an output of up to 10 kg/h. This makes it suitable for producing large, complex plastic parts for various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and medical.

Keywords: parallel kinematics, CNC machines, 5-axis machining, industrial 3D printing, additive manufacturing, Pentapod, SEAMHex, large format 3D printing, screw extrusion additive manufacturing, on-site machining, 7-axis machining, hexapod, icosahedron housing, high-speed 3D printer, plastic pellet extrusion, manufacturing technology, advanced manufacturing, machine tools, German engineering, Dr. Michael Schwaar