Between February 2025 and May 2026, with support from the European Union and SNN, we were able to build a robot and carry out tests, with the ultimate aim of printing reusable moulds.
Project summary
Paul Dijkstra Composites B.V. and A.P. Dijkstra Holding B.V. are developing a prototype gantry-style 3D printing and milling machine.
Composite boats are always manufactured using a mould. The base of the mould is currently made from wood (MDF). These moulds need to have the right coefficient of thermal expansion and be heat-resistant and airtight. Once production is complete, the mould is cut apart and disposed of. This means new material is needed for every mould. PDC has been working for some time to develop production processes that generate less waste.
The machine’s ultimate goal is to shred the material used to produce the mould so that it can be reused.