Mayku Multiplier

When in need of precision parts, creators usually resort silicon molding or outsource the production to specialized third parties. In order to give full control of the process to the creators, eliminate unnecessary lead times and simplify the workflow, Mayku created the Mayku Multiplier, a desktop size pressure forming machine that matches the precision and sharpness of injection molding.

Video 1: Introducing the Mayku Multiplier. Source: Mayku.

With Mayku Multiplier, very precise molds for prototyping, tooling, end uses or packaging can be created in under 5 minutes with the help of over 5 tonnes of force, ensuring factory-level quality and detail.

Key features

Mayku Multiplier has a Ø400 mm circular forming area with a height of 160 mm and 220 ºC heating power. This combined with the 60 psi pressure (over 5 tonnes) generated under the dome results in ultra-precise molds and final parts made fully in-house in a quick, safe and efficient manner.

Video 2: How Mayku Multiplier works. Source: Mayku.

Mayku Multiplier has a built-in precision IR sensor for controlling the plastic temperature, as well as an autoleveling feature to ensure that the forming sheet is well levelled and to avoid drooping. In the back of the device there is an integrated air outlet where the user can plug in tools and accessories such as an air pistol.

Image 1: The Mayku Multiplier user interface. Source: Mayku.

The use of Mayku Multiplier is extremely easy thanks to the step-by-step guide displayed on the machine's high-contrast LCD screen. The prompts shown on the screen speed up the workflow and ensure that the process is always safe and successful.

Video 3: Mayku Multiplier features. Source: Mayku.

Mayku Multiplier is equipped with WiFi connectivity. Once the user has registered the machine on the Mayku website, firmware, material, feature and accessory updates will be installed automatically as long as there is WiFi connection.

Vaccum forming vs. pressure forming

The main difference between vaccum forming (Mayku Formbox) and pressure forming is the method used to make a plastic sheet conform to the shape of the template. Instead of vacuum, the Mayku Multiplier uses pressure of four atmospheres to force air onto a heated plastic sheet to create a mold or part with high degrees of details and texture (details of less than <1 μm).

Image 2: The process of pressure forming. Source: Mayku.

Although vaccum forming and pressure forming are compatible with the same sheet materials, pressure forming can use thicker sheets (up to 5 mm), which results in thicker parts for different applications.

Image 3: The Mayku Multiplier is made of high quality sturdy materials. Source: Mayku.

Furthermore, pressure forming has several advantages over vacuum forming. Namely, with pressure forming it is possible to achieve higher level of detail (text or textures), a better surface finish, better dimensional accuracy, more precise tolerances and superior mechanical properties.

What you can create

Thanks to the variety of sheets available fot the Mayku multiplier, creators can make fully transparent prototypes or detailed final parts, as well as cast complex objects:

• PETG sheets - these sheets are transparent and safe for food use. This makes the PETG sheets ideal for making reusable molds. Furthermore, the non-stick surface and high impact strength of these rigid sheets allows for easy de-molding, a feature very helpful in applications such as the making of custom chocolate molds or product packaging.
• HIPS sheets - these sheets are opaque and versatile, and deliver smooth white satin forms. Great for electrical product casings, product packaging and final parts. These sheets can be cast but it is not recommended for repeat applications.
• EVA sheets - these sheets are transparent, soft and flexible after forming, which makes them ideal for complex shapes and very fine detail and high resolution textures (sand, grains) and improves the de-molding experience. With the EVA sheets it is possible to incorporate small undercuts and vertical walls into the designs. 

All the Mayku Multiplier sheets are recyclable (except for EVA) and can only be washed in water.

Image 4: The Mayku Multiplier sheet. Source: Mayku.

As far as the casting of materials within the molds made with Mayku Multiplier, the compatible materials are concrete, silicone, chocolate, jello, resin, water, foam, jesmonite and plaster. This opens a world of possibilities for applications in engineering, architecture, interior design, culinary arts, product packaging, product development, prototyping, and much more.

Applications

The Mayku Multiplier truly embodies the mission that Mayku pursue in their endeavors - to bring industrial manufacturing to the desktop and enable fast, easy and affordable prototyping and limited runs of end-use parts.

One of the applications of Mayku Multiplier is rapid prototyping. Businesses that need to develop accurate concept models or prototypes quickly and efficiently can produce it in-house within hours, rather than days. Mayku Multiplier is also ideal for tooling applications since it allows to create high-quality jigs and fixtures with a variety of materials, thus contributing to the improvement of quality and efficiency on the production line.

Image 5: Prototypes and parts made with the help of Mayku Multiplier. Source: Mayku.

Molds made with Mayku Multiplier are not only great for prototyping and tooling but also as end-use parts with a high level of detail and precision. The range of sheet materials and thicknesses can cover many applications, including those that require engineering materials. Packaging is one more possible applications for the Mayku Multiplier. Packaging for both prototypes and final products can be created in a convenient and scalable way. Once again, the range of materials and thicknesses enables the production of high-quality packaging with a high level of detail quickly, ensuring optimal results.