2023-08-25 08:17:28
The new MX Metal AM System from the Dutch company MX3D is suitable for workpieces weighing more than 5 tons and has a maximum building volume of 6×1.5 x3.5 metres. Reason for the development of this WAAM cell: companies in several sectors see 3D metal printing as an alternative to casting, forging and welding large components.
The launch will take place next week at Formnext Forum Austin in the US. Those who prefer to see the large format metal printer in Europe can visit Schweissen und Schneiden in Essen at the beginning of September.
In the energy and marine industries, customers are replacing cast or forged parts with 3D printed parts
Alternative to casting, forging and welding
The Amsterdam manufacturer of Robotic Wire Ard Additive Manufacturing systems is clearly focusing on large-format 3D metal printing. The MX Metal AM System was developed at the request of customers from the energy, maritime and manufacturing industry who want to make large workpieces. “Several of our customers see opportunities to apply WAAM to much larger parts. Especially in the energy and marine industry, where they replace either cast or forged parts with 3D printed parts to shorten lead times, reduce costs and bring production of critical parts back from offshore countries,” says Gijs van der Velden, CEO of MX3D. In a press release regarding the new system, MX3D points to the still existing supply chain problems, which lead to long lead times. Moreover, welding companies worldwide are facing a shortage of skilled welders. The new AM system is MX3D’s answer to this.
Heavy duty AM-systeem
With a building volume of 6 meters in the length and 3.5 meters in the Z direction, the new system is not easily too small for many applications. The system comes standard with a two-axis manipulator. According to Thomas van Glabeke, CPO, it is even the heavyweight champion of 3D printing. MX3D supplies the system with an 8-axis heavy-duty industrial robot including a powerful welding source (MIG/MAG + CMT) from Fronius. Depending on the material and geometry, deposition values of more than 10 kilograms per hour are achievable. The 3D printing of different alloys in one workpiece is also possible.
Not turnkey but configurable
Unlike the M1 Metal AM System, which is delivered turnkey, the new system is configurable. Customers can choose from ABB and Kuka robots; other hardware options can also be adjusted. Optionally, the system can be expanded with sensors as well as optical and acoustic systems for process monitoring. Together with the MetalXL 4.0 software from MX3D, it is even possible to realize a closed loop process. With the new software, far-reaching automation is possible and the machine can print 24/7. To make this possible, welding wire spools weighing up to more than 250 kilograms can be stored. The new MetalXL 4.0 software is a significant upgrade with very advanced tool paths that take WAAM to the next level.
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