AMT
AMT POSTPRO3D MACHINE
PostPro3D
AMT has announced the commercial launch of its PostPro3D smoothing system which was backed by Innovate UK, Xaar and Atomjet in 2017.
The post-processing machine is the result of a £624,000 AMT-led project, and works to finish 3D printed elastomeric and nylon parts using Boundary Layer Automated Smoothing Technology (BLAST). BLAST works on all powder-based and filament-based 3D printing technologies, AMT having tested the technology with a host of additive manufacturing hardware on a variety of applications, ranging from footwear and medical to aerospace and automotive. The process is said to remove porosity and seal parts to counter liquid or gas ingress, and smooths parts without degrading any mechanical properties.
AMT is bringing its €75,000 (Price may vary per customer requirements) machine to market to serve industry needs. The company says it is already being incorporated into digital workflows by some of its development partners, who have looked to take advantage of the PostPro3D system’s speed and cost-effectiveness. Carrying out tests with HP on Nylon Multi Jet Fusion components, the two companies recorded total process times between 90-120 minutes, with parts as large as 600 x 400 x 400 mm being processed. It is just one example in a lengthy assessment process which has validated the machine’s capabilities ahead of its commercial launch.
AMT
AMT POSTPRO3D MACHINE CHAMBER
PostPro3D chamber.
“After 18 months of development and testing, we are delighted to announce the launch of PostPro3D,” commented Joseph Crabtree, AMT CEO. “Our machine makes part surface finishing cost and speed competitive for high volume production – we welcome an opportunity to show customers the cost savings of adopting our technology.”
AMT is also launching a part processing service at its Sheffield facilities, which the company says will enable a potential customers to try the technology before committing to a purchase, as well as cater for those who require a lower volume of parts to process. The depowdering and smoothing service promises turnaround within 24 hours, and pricing has been based on part volume.
The machine is available immediately for pre-order, with delivery expected in Q4 of 2018. It will be exhibited at the upcoming formnext exhibition, where Crabtree will also be speaking at the TCT Conference @ formnext. The PostPro3D has also been shortlisted for the 2018 TCT Post-Processing Award.
