New SLM machine concept to feature at EuroMold 2014.
Experts from the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT will present its new SLM machine and exposure concept for the first time at EuroMold 2014.
Selective laser melting enables the production of prototypes and small runs of compact parts but there is increased demand for more flexibility in build space and higher build up rates.
Previously, productivity has been boosted with a combination of higher laser power and optics systems that allow users to adjust the beam diameter whilst parallel beam sources and scanner systems enable larger building spaces.
This new solution uses a printer head which features several individually controlled diode lasers controlled by linear axes instead of traditional scanner systems for scalable productivity. This increases the build-up rate significantly by adding a virtually unlimited number of beam sources with no need for modifications to system design.
The concept includes a processing head which has a local shielding gas flow system to guarantee a constant stream of shielding at each processing point regardless of size and essential for achieving reproducible component quality.
Build space is now increased simply by extending the travel lengths of the axis system and now process monitoring systems can be incorporated into the production system with ease increasing accuracy and productivity.
Fraunhofer ILT will feature its new SLM machine concept in Hall 11, booth C66 in Frankfurt exhibition centre on 25th-28th November.
