Bobst partners with Sauber Technologies

The multi-year strategic agreement will see Sauber supply 3D printed parts, engineering, and development for Bobst’s inkjet label presses

Bobst has entered into an agreement with additive manufacturing and 3D printing specialist Sauber Technologies. The new engineering partner will manufacture parts for the 3D printed Cluster used in digital printing technologies, as Bobst scales up production to meet high demand for its all-in-one label presses.  

The technology partnership will also enable Bobst to accelerate its innovation strategy for the future of packaging production.  

Sauber Technologies, which is part of the Sauber Group of Companies headquartered in Hinwil, Switzerland, offers 3D printing of metal and plastics parts with the same advanced processes and techniques that are used in Formula 1 TM race cars.  

‘With its expertise and leading 3D manufacturing technology, Sauber is known for always pushing the boundaries of innovation and this makes the company the perfect engineering partner for Bobst,’ said Léonard Badet, head of group technology at Bobst. ‘As technology leaders in our respective fields, there is a great synergy between our two companies, and we are excited to implement F1 TM technology into our inkjet engines in what will undoubtedly secure our place at the top of the podium and keep us there going forward.’  

Sauber Technologies will shortly begin serial production of parts for Bobst’s proprietary Cluster technology. Enabling printing speeds of up to 100m/min in a native 1200 DPI resolution, the Cluster integrates all ink management, electronics, and mechanics with the printheads in one scalable matrix. This highly flexible and stable technology can be adapted for any substrate and application. 

Jonathan Herzog, chief commercial officer, Sauber Technologies, said: ‘With the largest and most modern additive manufacturing facility in Switzerland, Sauber Technologies is dedicated to the development of high-end additive manufacturing for the widest spectrum of industries, whether that is F1 TM racing, energy supply, or industrial label manufacturing. We see this agreement as the beginning of a fruitful partnership and look forward to supporting Bobst in elevating its printing equipment to the next level.’  

The agreement came into effect on January 1, 2023.