GE Additive H1
GE Additive reveals prototype of new binder jet machine.
GE Additive has today released the first image of a prototype of a new additive manufacturing machine based on binder jet technology, named H1.
The company, which notably acquired Arcam and Concept Laser this time last year, says the platform will ‘eventually challenge the need for castings’ and thus ensure cost savings on tooling, moulds and infrastructure. Further iterations will be made of the H1 as we enter the new year, with the first production machines set to be shipped in mid-2018.
After introducing the first machine from the A.T.L.A.S project at formnext powered by TCT last month, GE Additive has followed up with a machine it believes to be faster than any other binder jet platform on the market. It can print large parts in a range of materials, like stainless steel, nickel, and iron alloys.
The company is confident the machine will ‘disrupt traditional manufacturing’, particularly in industries which require components able to withstand demanding environments.
"We see great demand for binder jet technology in the aerospace and automotive sectors,” commented Mohammed Ehteshami, Vice President and General Manager, GE Additive. “We are committed to accelerating the additive manufacturing industry and will continue to build on our strength in the laser and EBM modalities by developing and bringing new technologies to market.
"We have a progressive approach to innovation and product development. I challenged the team to develop this new machine in 55 days. They came in ahead of time with the process of concept to first print taking only 47 days."
Since formnext, GE Additive has also announced the opening of its first international Customer Experience Center in Munich. Concept Laser has also revealed plans for a new R&D and production facility, while Arcam released a statement to announce the impending departures of CEO, Magnus Rene and CFO, Johan Brandt.
