Formalloy X-series LMD system.
San Diego-based additive manufacturing company, Formalloy, will introduce its new X-series laser metal deposition (LMD) system RAPID + TCT in Fort Worth, TX next week.
The start-up's LMD process provides a cost-effective solution for printing metal parts, repairs and coatings in a wide range of materials due to its industry first LMD with blue laser technology.
Starting at $200K, the new X-Series features options including closed-loop control, variable-wavelength lasers including both IR laser and blue laser, and Formfeed powder feeders for gradient/bi-metallic structures. Formalloy says the new system will deliver "improved quality, better powder efficiency, and the ability to print with the most comprehensive list of metal alloys on the market".
NASA rocket nozzle 3D printed by Formalloy.
Each machine comes standard with the Formax Metal Deposition Head and a customisable build volume with up to 5-axes of motion. The head has proven high powder efficiency and has built in quick-release features for ease of maintenance and component swaps.
Formalloy's X-series utilises scanning technology to monitor build quality and accuracy in real-time, and then auto-correct errors to achieve free of defects.
All of Formalloy's components and systems are designed with open parameters for powder supply, allowing users to work with their preferred materials.
Formalloy's technology is currently being applied by NASA in a series of R&D projects to investigate scalability of additive manufacturing for large, high value components. The company recently showcased a rocket nozzle demonstrator from this collaboration at the Additive Manufacturing Users Group where the part featured in the event's prestigious Technical Competition.
Formalloy will exhibit on booth 244 at RAPID + TCT on 24-26th April at Fort Worth Convention Centre, TX. Register here.
