3D printing with ceramics is one particularly interesting and fruitful growth area, as these materials have a variety of different applications in a broad range of fields. Their high heat-resistance means that they are regularly used in aerospace or other high-performance industrial components, while their durability and surface qualities also makes them ideal for dental implants as well as pottery and other household items. German manufacturer Grohe is one of the leading figures in the bathroom fittings industry, and it has recently adopted 3D printing in its processes to produce a new line of advanced sanitary appliances.

　　Grohe announced its intentions to implement 3D printing technology, at this year’s ISH trade show in Frankfurt am Main, following up on its strong showing from 2017. ISH is the world's leading trade fair for bathroom, heating and air-conditioning technology, and Grohe’s products are always a highlight for the devoted attendees, due to the company’s reputation for innovation in the sector.

　　Digitization of the manufacturing process, in order to improve efficiency and develop a more integrated workflow, is something that Grohe is strongly focused on. The company has received over 300 awards over the last 10 years for its design and innovation, particularly relating to sustainability. On January 31st, Grohe CEO Michael Rauterkus is set to address an audience of industry leaders with a speech on the topic “Water as a resource in times of digitalization”, during the World Market Leaders Summit in Schwäbisch Hall, Germany.

　　One of Grohe’s most impressive product releases of recent years was the groundbreaking Sense and Sense guard systems, which debuted in 2017. Drawing on breakthroughs with smart technology and advanced, compact sensors, these intelligent water control systems are pointing the way forward to the smart homes of the future. They are integrated into bathroom fittings in order to gather information about water and moisture levels, and can detect and give early warnings about potential water damage.

　　This Sense guard system is disruptive as a new introduction to the industry for a number of reasons. Not only is there the additional safety functionality that it provides, it will also enable a standard product to significantly extend its life-cycle, contributing to less waste in manufacturing and a more sustainable industry. It also suggests serious potential to other household appliance manufacturers, providing smart kitchens and more.

　　Last year Grohe launched Bau Ceramic, which is the company’s first full-service ceramics range for bathrooms. Providing an entire bathroom fitting was a major step forward for the company and should see a more widespread adoption of its various innovations. This year’s ISH show also saw the release of the Sensia Arena, Grohe’s new shower-toilet fitting. No other shower-toilet on the market has as many awards as this shower-toilet- a total of 14 to date.

　　The company’s first tests with 3D printing are due to be carried out in the next few months, with its new line of ceramic products scheduled to be released in March.