Solukon and Reichenbacher have collaborated to mix important submit processing steps and allow ‘the primary’ automated field unpacking resolution for 3D printing. Solukon says that the venture is taking its system of eradicating powder routinely from elements manufactured with laser powder mattress fusion (LBPF) processes and making a single system to deal with each the unpacking and depowdering submit processing steps.
After the LBPF course of, the printed half is in what is usually known as a ‘powder cake’ of unused metallic powder in a container. Unpacking the half from the powder cake usually includes vacuuming and clearing away powder.
As soon as elements are uncovered and faraway from the container, they’re positioned in a Solukon system so as to routinely take away any unfused metallic powder from the inside of the advanced half. Utilizing programmable two-axis rotation and vibration, the powder turns into fluid and may circulation out of the inside channels in a managed method.
Solukon says that it’s important to the venture is that not the half alone, however somewhat the whole container through which the half sits is loaded into the SFM-AT1000-S. The Reichenbacher field has a detachable backside and sides, and its secured through a zero level clamping system, then rotated the wrong way up, and the primary of the unfastened powder from the powder cake is emptied routinely. Discharged powder is fed instantly into an exterior materials preparation station.
The person then removes the field body with an exterior cellular lifting gadget or crane, in order that the half is totally accessible. The Solukon system then cleans the half utilizing SPR know-how with programmable two-axis rotation and adjustable vibration.
With the SPR-Pathfinder software program, the movement sequence within the Solukon system could be calculated upfront utilizing the half’s CAD file. The SFM-AT1000-S can accommodate bins of as much as 800 kg and, with the assistance of a excessive frequency knocker, can loosen cussed powder clumps within the elements inside channels in response to Solukon.
Andreas Hartmann, CEO and CTO of Solukon mentioned: “The SFM-AT1000-S with field unpacking is a venture with a excessive diploma of automation. Moreover, it demonstrates how flexibly our methods can be utilized for particular person buyer options. We’re glad to assist Reichenbacher of their venture unpacking bins of laser-melted metallic elements. That is how, collectively, we create an actual aggressive edge for Reichenbacher’s prospects. Along with Reichenbacher’s Additive Manufacturing Staff, led by Dr. Alexander Kawalla-Nam, this has led to an industry-ready automation resolution in document time.
“With Solukon, we as soon as once more have a system in our portfolio that has a very distinctive promoting level and makes us stand out within the space of postprocessing in opposition to customary options on the AM market. This places Reichenbacher able to map the whole 3D printing course of chain. We thank Mr. Hartmann and crew for his or her openness and quick execution of the venture.”
