LCV as a service company
Besides applying coatings, the LCV experts can also apply multiple layers and perform 3D printing. The special feature of this 3D printing technique is that you can build upon an existing piece and make products or perform repairs. For the simple form you use conventional production techniques and for the complex parts more expensive 3D laser cladding materials.
Jan Lambrecht, CEO at LCV, explains: “An example of the applications is the appliance of a wear-resistant coating on extruder screws for breeders. The screws that we have treated, last six times longer than new screws. Also in the dredging sector we have already found great applications.”
Building upon years of research
With 17 years of experience in state-of-the-art laser technology, VITO is streets ahead. Since 2010, VITO has been focusing on laser cladding and especially ‘additive manufacturing’ or 3D printing. As the laser cladding technology is now economically viable, VITO decided to launch a spin-off, with input from the VITO patents and its machine park. The Venture Development Team at VITO has brought together the right people and financial profiles and refined the business plan, which made the launch of the business reality. This way, the LCV has a strong starting position to make laser cladding a success story in Flanders and beyond.
Stijn Bijnens, CEO at LRM: “Laser cladding is a smart and innovative repair technique. Here at LRM, we focus largely on this so-called ‘smart manufacturing industry’. A healthy and competitive manufacturing industry forms the engine for the local economy. Today, LRM has about ten companies in this domain which are in a state of transformation. On the one hand they themselves develop competitive and innovative techniques to ensure their future, and on the other hand they are preparing themselves for further globalisation and internationalisation of the market. With LCV, we are now sending a company to Limburg that is specialising in this smart production.”
Marc Mommaerts, Fund Manager at AAAFund, adds: “When LCV introduced its story to us via the BAN Flanders network, we immediately saw a number of unique aspects. Besides applying wear-resistant layers and the 3D printing applications, the LCV can also offer an alternative for the very environmentally harmful hard chrome plating. The combination of many years of experience within VITO and a motivated team guarantees a promising future.”