Branded content — Solukon. Presentation published in November 2024.
Larger parts produced by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) create new handling and powder-removal requirements. Solukon developed the SFM-AT1500-S for this segment, including parts made on systems such as Nikon SLM Solutions’ NXG XII 600E and the AMCM M 8K.
From early systems to large metal parts
Founded in 2015, Solukon initially developed equipment for parts from the Concept Laser Xline 2000R, whose cited build volume was 800 × 400 × 500 mm. The manufacturer launched the SFM-AT1000-S in 2020, followed by the SFM-AT1500-S in 2024.
Part capacity and loading
Its October 22, 2024 announcement specified two admissible envelopes: 600 × 600 × 1,500 mm or 820 × 820 × 1,300 mm. The maximum stated mass is 2,100 kg, including the build plate.
Solukon sought to limit the footprint and enable crane loading from the front and top, without external platforms or stairs. Andreas Hartmann, Solukon’s CEO/CTO, described the design as follows:
“The system saves space, is relatively easy to transport and easy to install since there is no time-consuming assembly work necessary. It’s basically a plug-and-play machine”, says CEO/CTO Andreas Hartmann from Solukon.
Vibration, inerting and digital control
The system combines vibration and programmable two-axis rotation to help powder flow. Solukon’s decoupling concept is intended to limit vibration transfer to the rest of the chamber. Inerting is provided for reactive materials, subject to the applicable configuration and procedures.
The chamber is stainless steel. Its rotary table has four independently controlled compressed-air lines for vibrators, knockers and blowers. SPR-Pathfinder calculates a movement sequence from the part’s CAD file, while the Digital Factory Tool provides process tracking.
“Digital features are also essential in the large-scale part segment. Smart software is the only way to depowder complex structures without human programming effort. Plus, continuous tracking is the only way to achieve real transparency,” Hartmann explains.
SFM-AT1500-S specifications at launch
| Feature | Value or description |
|---|---|
| Maximum part dimensions | 600 × 600 × 1,500 mm or 820 × 820 × 1,300 mm |
| Maximum mass, including build plate | 2,100 kg |
| Examples of intended printer systems | NXG XII 600E; AMCM M 8K. Compatibility depends on the part and build plate. |
| Equipment and features | SPR-Pathfinder; Digital Factory Tool; vibration decoupling |
| Sectors cited by the manufacturer | Aerospace, space, transportation, defence |
The two dimensional envelopes are alternatives. Fitting within an envelope does not establish universal compatibility: geometry, build plate, mass and material also need to be considered.
Powder collection
The compatible SFM-PCU unit collects powder in a large container through a sensor-monitored process. Solukon also offered to assess compatibility with other manufacturers’ powder-conveying systems on request.
The Formnext 2024 launch
The manufacturer announced the SFM-AT1500-S presentation at Formnext 2024, Hall 12.0, Stand D71, followed by delivery of the first units to two customers. These dates and orders refer to the launch announcement, rather than a current forecast.
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