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Reactive Materials Processed with Additive Manufacturing Systems



Renishaw offers its laser melting additive metal manufacturing process. "This process is capable of producing fully dense metal parts direct from 3D CAD data using a fiber laser," said a company spokesperson. "The parts are built layer by layer in thicknesses ranging from 20 to 100 um. A range of fine metal powders, which are fully melted in a tightly controlled atmosphere, are used."

The AM125 and the AM250 are both available from Renishaw. "Both systems feature vacuum technology, low gas consumption, variable powder delivery, low oxygen content in the build atmosphere and a safe-change filter system to minimize user contact with materials," said the spokesperson. The touchscreen operator interface includes menu options for machine preparation and clean down. Each system also features a soft re-coater blade that can be rotated several times before replacement, the use of low-cost filter elements and low gas consumption. "These features should improve system reliability and lower cost of ownership," said the spokesperson.

Renishaw's additive metal systems are designed to process a variety of materials, including 316L and 17-4PH SS, H13 tool steel, aluminum Al-Si-12, titanium CP, Ti-6Al-4V and 7Nb, cobalt-chrome (ASTM75) and Inconel 718 and 625. "Both systems are built for rapid material changeover," said the spokesperson. "The AM125 utilizes a cassette type materials delivery system and the AM250 a removable hopper. These are useful for materials development or use of a range of materials." A valve interlock on the AM250 is designed to allow the addition of extra powder while the process is running. "A gas knife clears away reactive, sooty emissions and a heated build plate help ensure safe processing of reactive materials such as titanium and aluminum," said the spokesperson.

According to the company, the AM125 provides a part-build volume of 125 x 125 x 125 mm (XYZ), and the AM250 provides 250 x 250 x 300 mm (XYZ) with Z-axis extendable to 360 mm. Both systems have build rates of 5 to 20 cm3 per hour, dependent on the material, part density and geometry. The AM125 is available with the option of 100 or 200 W laser, and the AM250 a 200 or 400 W laser.

The spokesperson stated that both machines feature a fully welded vacuum chamber which enable low-pressure evacuation followed by a recharge with high purity argon gas. "Low gas consumption after the initial chamber flood allows operation at oxygen concentrations below 50 parts per million," said the spokesperson. "This is crucial when processing reactive materials and contributing to material integrity and mechanical performance."

According to the company, all file preparation is completed off-line through a choice of interface - Marcam Autofab software or Materialise Magics. After it is completed, the build file is uploaded to the machine via a secure network or direct connection. "The addition of process data and event logging is standard, with various additional process control options on request," said the spokesperson. "These additions improve product traceability."

For more information contact:

Renishaw Inc.

5277 Trillium Blvd

Hoffman Estates, IL 60192

847-286-9953

usa@renishaw.com

www.renishaw.com

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