BJMI

PROJECT

BJMI

Additive manufacturing with circular, AI-driven innovation for metal components
PROJECT LEAD

Tommaso Tirelli

CONCEPT

The BJMI project aims to define and validate an innovative methodology to facilitate the adoption of metal additive manufacturing via Binder Jetting (BJ) in Italy, particularly in the automation and luxury fashion sectors.

The development of an AI-based algorithm to scout suitable geometries and assist in design, combined with the creation of a new metal powder from recycled industrial scrap, will enable BJ users to manufacture a variety of metal components. These components—ranging from end-use parts to tooling—will vary in performance depending on their application, but all will share a common circular manufacturing approach and reduced environmental impact.

CONTEXT

Binder Jetting (BJ) is an emerging 3D printing technology that creates complex and customizable metal parts by binding metal powders layer by layer with a liquid binder, followed by sintering.

Its advantages include:

  • Flexible production
  • Sustainability, with reduced waste and support for circular economy models
  • Local production, reducing reliance on imports

However, technical, quality, and cost-related challenges remain. Investment in process optimization and digitalization is essential. Italy, with its rich industrial tradition, is well-positioned to lead globally in this sector. BJ technology has the potential to transform the production of stainless steel components and boost the competitiveness of Italian manufacturing.

Fonte: immagine proprietaria del progetto

Beneficiari

OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED RESULTS

  • AI Algorithm Development: Automates identification of geometries best suited for BJ, speeding up the design process
  • Circular Economy: Uses recycled metal scraps to produce raw materials, cutting costs and environmental impact
  • Versatility: Enables production of complex functional components (e.g., manifolds, molds) and luxury items
  • Digitalization: Integrates digital technologies to enhance production efficiency and drive innovation

Expected benefits:

  • +90% time savings in design and production
  • -25% CO₂ equivalent emissions thanks to recycled materials
  • Customization and complexity in component production
  • Market expansion and new revenue generation for participating companies

Key innovations:

  • AI-enhanced design: Automation and optimization through artificial intelligence
  • Sustainable materials: Use of metal scraps as feedstock
  • Cross-sector applications: Impacting both industry and luxury sectors

In summary, BJMI is a step forward toward more sustainable, efficient, and flexible industrial production. Through cutting-edge technology and circular strategies, the project aims to position Italy as a leader in metal additive manufacturing.

KEY FIGURES

6

RESEARCHERS INVOLVED

1

NEW HIRES EXPECTED

12

PROJECT DURATION

7

NUMBER OF WORK PACKAGES (WPS)

4

STARTING TRL

6

FINAL TRL