With Rapid + TCT approaching, Additive Manufacturing Technologies will be showcasing two new devices. AMT’s post-processing machines, originally announced last September, will add to their PostPro3D series. The new additions, the PostPro3DMini and PostPro3DColor, cover 2 distinct niches within post-processing: the former offering a scaled-down device and the other specialising in color parts (as the names also suggest).
Both the new systems will debut at RAPID + TCT in Detroit. “We have been operating in semi-stealth mode in the US, but our system has been commercially available for the last eight months. We are scaling up production both domestically in the US and globally, and we are eager to share the progress we have made with our post-processing solutions,” said Joseph Crabtree, CEO at AMT.
So far, AMT’s post-processing machines have been making their way to market in other forms. The company also set up shop in Austin, TX offering a benchmarking service to other firms. AMT’s post-processing technologies make an injection molded surface quality possible for AM parts. It works with Laser Sintering, HP Multi Jet Fusion, High Speed Sintering, or Fused Deposition Modelling technology
BLAST & Post-processing
Comparison before post-processing (top) vs after (bottom)
“Our PostPro3D systems make part surface finishing cost and speed competitive for high volume production and has been fully tested on products across a wide range of industry sectors including automotive, aerospace, sports, and footwear. In addition, parts processed in the PostPro3D machines do not show a cytotoxic effect in accordance with ISO 10993-5, ISO 10993-1, and ISO 10993-12, which means they can be certified for medical use,” Crabtree adds.
Both machines employ the companies trademark Boundary Layer Automated Smoothing Technology (BLAST). This post-processing method is particularly good for powder-based parts, smoothening the surface of components, sealing them and removing porosity to prevent liquids and gases getting in or out, without compromising the properties of the part. AMT hopes to put it into the hands of various small and large-scale industrial clients.
Both the PostPro3DMini and the PostPro3DColor can easily integrate into the various workflows. They can create elaborate finishes while also reducing production time and removing the manual stages of post-processing. Further work may have them moving into metal part finishing, as other companies have been showing interest lately.
Featured image courtesy of AMT.
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