Posted to News on 29th Sep 2017, 14:01
New 3D printer for large-scale production of complex metal parts
Thanks to an ingenious interchangeable cylinder concept and an industry-ready periphery, the new TruPrint 3000 3D printer from laser and laser system manufacturer Trumpf is suitable for large-scale production of complex metal parts up to 300mm in diameter and 400mm high. And, when enhanced by complementary process stations, this new system can become a highly effective 3D printing cell.
The medium-format machine utilises laser metal fusion (LMF) technology, in which a laser melts metallic powder, layer by layer, in a production bed to build parts. LMF is particularly suited to the cost-effective manufacture of geometrically complex and custom parts. Many sectors will benefit from this introduction, from machine builders to dental and medical engineering, automotive and even jewellery manufacture.
Depending on the part in question, it may be made from any weldable material such as steel, nickel-based alloys, titanium or aluminium in powder form. Since the TruPrint 3000 is equipped with two supply cylinders, up to 75 litres of powder are available for each job, which is around two and half times the construction volume. This is sufficient powder to complete an entire manufacturing process without having to stop for refilling.
Even if the powder were to run low, the ingenious tool change cylinder then kicks in. The TruPrint 3000 is designed so that the supply and overflow cylinders can be changed without interrupting the manufacturing process. This reduces downtime and increases the 3D printer's productivity.
To ensure efficient powder management an automated sieve station is available with the TruPrint 3000 that refines several hundred kilograms of powder per hour to ensure consistent quality. Grain size, grain-size distribution and flowability are all factored in to determine the laser output and process speed that will maximise powder performance. And before the powder is delivered, Trumpf performs an internal check to ensure it meets the customer's quality requirements.
Complete process chain
Customers not only benefit from the higher machine availability that results from external unpacking but also from a safe and sealed powder cycle too, as excess material is automatically returned to the sieve station.
Completing the product programme is the TruTops Print with Siemens NX 3D design and production software, which is said to be the first comprehensive software with a standardised user interface across systems. Industry 4.0 systems can also be brought together for additive manufacturing via Trumpf TruConnect.
Follow the link for more information about the new Trumpf TruPrint 3000 3D printer.
