1. Why Hybrid? The Advantages of Combined Manufacturing
2. The CORiTEC 650i PRO as a Benchmark for Hybrid Manufacturing
3. Technological Details of the 650i PRO Series
4. Hybrid Workflows in Practice: Fields of Application
5. Material Diversity as a Success Factor
6. Practical Benefits: Concrete Advantages for Target Groups
7. Sustainability and Cost Efficiency
9. Conclusion: Hybrid as a Success Factor – 650i PRO as the Benchmark
1. Why Hybrid? The Advantages of Combined Manufacturing
Hybrid manufacturing is not just a natural evolution of two established technologies—it represents a paradigm shift. It strategically merges the strengths of both additive and subtractive methods into one seamless workflow.
Additive technologies such as Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) enable quick and material-efficient production of complex components—geometries that would be nearly impossible to create using purely subtractive methods. At the same time, clinical requirements in dentistry demand absolute precision for fitting surfaces, threads, and connector geometries—areas where milling machines excel.
By producing components additively and subsequently finishing them subtractively, a workflow emerges that combines additive efficiency with clinically reliable subtractive precision. Implant-supported bars, long-span bridges, or denture bases can be produced cost-effectively and then perfected to deliver optimal fit and surface quality.
Hybrid manufacturing is therefore not a compromise, but the logical answer to increasing demands for precision, efficiency, and resource optimization in dental production.
2. The CORiTEC 650i PRO as a Benchmark for Hybrid Manufacturing
The CORiTEC 650i PRO series embodies hybrid manufacturing at the highest level. It is not simply a dental milling machine, but an advanced production system designed specifically for hybrid workflows.
From the ground up, the machine was engineered to accurately finish additively manufactured metal blanks while also processing all common dental materials—especially high-precision metals—with maximum accuracy.
Its foundation consists of a combination of steel and granite components, providing exceptional rigidity and vibration damping. A water-cooled high-frequency spindle with 5.7 kW power, high torque for titanium machining, and speeds up to 50,000 rpm ensures smooth operation and extended tool life.
Integrated hybrid holders allow LPBF-printed components to be fixed directly into the machine via a zero-point clamping system and processed in a controlled workflow. This is complemented by the unique iCAM-AM module for hybrid machining, which calculates data for both metal 3D printers and milling machines, taking into account correct zero-point alignment and simultaneous 5-axis processing. Even highly complex geometries can be finished with exceptional precision.
Automatic tool and blank changers enable continuous 24/7 production—significantly increasing efficiency in milling centers and large laboratories.
3. Technological Details of the 650i PRO Series
A look at the technical details shows why the 650i PRO series is positioned in the premium segment.
The combination of a massive granite base and sturdy steel frame is a key USP, giving the machine unmatched stability and precision. This design reduces vibrations to an absolute minimum and forms the foundation for ultra-precise milling with excellent surface quality—even during long machining cycles or complex indications.
The water-cooled HF spindle provides consistently high power and torque, while its smooth operation ensures long tool life. With a 32-position HSK tool changer and an optional blank changer holding up to 16 discs, workflows can be fully automated without operator intervention.
The zero-point clamping system from EROWA delivers 5000 Nm clamping force for precise and rigid workpiece positioning. Specialized holders—from closed blank holders to C-clamps and hybrid holders—offer maximum machining flexibility.
A unique highlight of the 650i PRO is its ability to produce abutments from premill blanks with outstanding quality in just five minutes, enabled by newly integrated high-speed turning-milling technology realized through the torque motor of the A-axis.
The machine’s software, the iCAM module from imes-icore, sets new standards. It includes optimized postprocessor logic, ready-to-use strategies for all materials and indications, and automated, validated workflows. Collision monitoring and automatic adjustment for positional deviations ensure safe and efficient operation.
Together, these features make the 650i PRO not only a technical benchmark but also a process benchmark in professional dental manufacturing.
4. Hybrid Workflows in Practice: Fields of Application
The strengths of the 650i PRO series particularly shine when producing complex indications.
One classic example is implant-supported bars. These can be economically built using the LPBF process in titanium or CoCr, enabling geometries that are nearly impossible with purely subtractive methods. During subtractive finishing, support surfaces, screw channels, and connectors are milled with extreme precision to achieve perfect clinical fit.
Long-span bridges also benefit from the hybrid workflow. Additive methods create the frameworks efficiently, while subtractive finishing on the 650i PRO ensures exact margins, accurate positioning, and clinically smooth surfaces.
Additional high-value applications include partial denture frameworks, where printed structures can be refined through subtractive finishing. This improves fit and enhances patient comfort by creating superior surface textures. Even threads for attachments can be additively pre-formed and later milled precisely in the machine.
5. Material Diversity as a Success Factor
Another decisive advantage of the CORiTEC 650i PRO series is its unrestricted material flexibility. While many systems are limited to specific material classes, the 650i PRO supports an impressive range.
Plastics and ceramics can be processed just as efficiently as titanium and CoCr metals.
With the integration of additively manufactured indication blanks, the spectrum expands even further. Structures created via 3D printing can be seamlessly transitioned into the subtractive finishing workflow.
This makes the 650i PRO suitable for an almost unlimited range of applications, providing laboratories and milling centers with maximum versatility.
6. Practical Benefits: Concrete Advantages for Target Groups
For dental laboratories, investing in a CORiTEC 650i PRO means one thing above all: independence. Complex cases that previously required outsourcing to milling centers can now be produced in-house. This saves time, reduces costs, and significantly shortens turnaround times. At the same time, laboratories enhance their competitiveness by expanding their portfolio and offering premium-quality work.
Milling centers benefit from scalability and automation. With the ability to operate 24/7 using automated changers, production capacity increases dramatically without requiring proportional personnel increases. The capability to offer hybrid workflows provides a competitive advantage—especially internationally—as customers increasingly demand efficient and highly precise solutions.
7. Sustainability and Cost Efficiency
Hybrid manufacturing contributes significantly to sustainability. Additive manufacturing reduces material waste, while subtractive finishing is used only where clinically necessary. This lowers costs and conserves resources.
Energy efficiency improves as milling times decrease and scrap rates are minimized.
Economically, the 650i PRO offers strong ROI potential. Milling centers often see the investment pay off within months due to high utilization and premium services. Larger laboratories can enter hybrid workflows, lowering long-term operating costs while unlocking new revenue opportunities.
The machine also offers future security. In a market increasingly focused on efficiency, precision, and sustainability, hybrid solutions provide a decisive competitive advantage.
8. Market and Future Outlook
The dental technology market is clearly moving toward hybrid manufacturing processes. Three trends are shaping this development:
The CORiTEC 650i PRO is prepared for this future. Its open approach to materials and workflows, high level of automation, and seamless integration of additive and subtractive manufacturing make it a future-proof investment.
9. Conclusion: Hybrid as a Success Factor – 650i PRO as the Benchmark
Hybrid manufacturing is not a short-term trend but the next logical evolutionary step in dental production. Additive manufacturing alone cannot deliver the precision and reproducibility required in dentistry, while subtractive methods alone are limited in efficiency and material usage.
Only the combination of both creates a system that meets the needs of laboratories, milling centers, and clinicians alike.
The CORiTEC 650i PRO series is more than a machine—it is a strategic investment that enables users to modernize workflows, expand capabilities, and remain competitive in the long term. It is both a benchmark and a forward-looking model for what dental manufacturing in the 21st century can achieve.
FAQ (Extended)
Q: Which indications are particularly suitable for hybrid manufacturing?
A: Bars, long-span bridges, full dentures, splints, and partial denture frameworks.
Q: Is hybrid manufacturing suitable for smaller laboratories?
A: Yes—especially if complex cases are regularly produced in-house.
Q: Which materials can be processed?
A: Zirconia, titanium, CoCr, glass ceramics, lithium disilicate, PMMA, PEEK, and wax.
Q: How does the machine integrate into existing workflows?
A: Open interfaces allow seamless integration with common CAD/CAM systems.
Q: How about service and maintenance?
A: Regular maintenance and professional support are essential to ensure precision and long-term availability.
