Additive Manufacturing Technologies Ltd (AMT) has recently announced the launch of two new de-powdering systems. Named PostProDP and PostProDP Pro, the new devices have been developed in collaboration with Leering Hengelo, a producer of blasting equipment for the metal and plastics processing industry.
André Gaalman, CEO of Leering commented: “Leering are experts in surface finishing with 80 years of experience in machine design and production for surface treatment. We export our machines, branded Normfinish, worldwide. The partnership with AMT will allow us to strengthen each other’s positions in additive manufacturing and offer our joint customers globally the best solution for their post-processing needs. We’re excited to offer our customers each other’s solutions and bring a next generation of post-processing solutions to the market.”
What makes the PostProDP different from other solutions of the manufacturer?
First, it should be noted that the post-production stage still represents nearly 30 percent of the manufacturing cost hence its crucial importance in manufacturing. And the current market shows that about sixty percent of the manufacturing costs of a 3D printed part are attributed to the highly manual steps of post processing the part.
The PostProDP completes the existing portfolio of the UK-based specialist, which already integrates its vapor smoothing machines & automated post-processing solutions designed for polymer 3D Printing.
Both de-powdering machines are CE and ATEX certified. In other terms, not only they comply with the European legislation, which makes them appropriate for the European market, but they also comply with the ATEX certification, a uniquely European Union directive for protection against explosive atmospheres.
Unlike AMT’s other solutions, these depowdering systems integrate an internally located adaptable and removable tumble basket which facilitates optimized part cleaning while reducing the fine particulate powder leakage after processing.
In addition to the user-friendly design configuration, the post-production devices integrate a recipe-controlled PLC controller. This controller offers a plug and play solution thanks to the various recipes for each common material combination.
AMT has already started various tests across Europe and the USA. So far, results show that the PostProDP is 3D printer material agonistic. According to the company, it would be compatible with all powder-based printer platforms (E;g.: HP Multi Jet Fusion, EOS, and 3D Systems, as well as a range of thermoplastic polymers such as polyamides and elastomeric materials.). Users could also leverage several media such as steel balls while utilizing this post-production solution, and will only need 10 minutes to remove the remaining powder on the manufactured part.
Speaking of this launch, Joseph Crabtree, CEO of AMT states: “AMT’s vision is to develop fully automated safe and sustainable post-processing solutions to enable the industrial production of additively manufactured parts at scale. We first achieved this with the successful commercialization of the PostPro3D vapor smoothing system. De-powdering is the next key bottleneck in the post processing chain, and PostProDP goes a long way to mitigate many of the current issues with cleaning AM parts. We are delighted to be partnering with industry experts Leering on this industry critical mission.”
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