A novel design for the integration of conventional rolling bearings into MEX-manufactured components

ABSTRACT: Advances in additive manufacturing (AM) enable the use of AM components in demanding complex applications with high functional requirements. As a result, integrating standardized machine elements such as conventional rolling bearings is gaining growing relevance. However, limitations regarding achievable tolerances or surface qualities in the MEX process stand in contrast to strict specifications for bearing integration. This study introduces a novel interface element and a corresponding integration process that considers both bearing requirements and the layered structure of MEX components.