#Startup3D: Diabatix on Using Generative Design for Cooling in 3D Printing

In the most demanding industries, such as aerospace or automotive, the creation of parts requires exhaustive quality control to ensure they are suitable for their intended purpose. One of these aspects to be taken into account is the cooling of the parts. In order to obtain higher quality, certain manufacturers need to create cooling channels that prevent components from overheating. The same is true when using 3D printing as a production method, especially when working with metallic materials. That’s why Belgian startup Diabatix has developed the ColdStream platform that allows you to use its generative design systems for increased cooling of parts, even those that have been 3D printed. We spoke with its team to learn more about the young company and its role in the additive manufacturing industry.

3DN: Could you introduce yourself and your connection to 3D printing?

I am Lieven Vervecken, the founder and CEO of Diabatix. I have two master’s degrees in engineering and a PhD in fluid mechanics from the University of Leuven (Belgium), so I think it’s fair to say I have a strong technical background. Immediately after completing my PhD in 2015, I founded Diabatix. During the first few years of Diabatix my main focus was on technology and software development but as the company grew, my role evolved towards business development and the management of the company. Today, I have a Head of R&D and a Head of Product & Operations in my management team that take full care of the technical aspect of the company.

Lieven Vervecken, CEO and founder of Diabatix

My first contact with 3D printing was during the summer holidays of my first year at university in 2005. I had the opportunity to work as a student at Materialise for a few weeks. I was the ‘assistant’ of the R&D engineer who was responsible for the development of their Mammoth 3D printers. You can’t be any closer to the development of these machines. The nice thing was, I actually did this student job for 5 years in a row. As a result, the moment the Diabatix started, I was very well aware of the capabilities of 3D printing and the value we could bring if we would adopt our technology to this manufacturing process.