Oerlikon AM has donated a metal 3D printer to the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science at UNC Charlotte’s William States Lee College of Engineering. The equipment, an M280 laser powder bed fusion system made by Germany’s EOS GmbH, is a commercial-grade 3D printer that uses powdered metal feedstock. This industrial machine is comparable in size to a minivan and is designed for manufacturing components where strength, precision, and durability are required.
“We recognize the critical role of additive manufacturing in American industry,” said Luke Dee, Oerlikon AM’s Process Engineering Manager. “UNC Charlotte’s engineering college will be a pivotal research resource as we continue to lead the technology forward.” The donation positions both the company and the college to increase their leadership in the expanding additive manufacturing industry.
The M280 system will be managed by Jaime Berez, assistant professor of mechanical engineering with expertise in additive manufacturing. “This manufacturing equipment allows us to conduct research that is relevant to the current needs of industry,” said Berez. “These machines can process alloys that can withstand the high-temperature combustion environment of a jet engine, as well as alloys that can remain chemically inert and safe for biomedical devices.”
Metal additive manufacturing offers several advantages over traditional manufacturing methods. The technology reduces material waste and decreases lead time while enabling complex component designs. It allows for the consolidation of multiple parts during the printing stage rather than during assembly, and can produce fine geometries that optimize performance.
Berez is currently researching the health monitoring and performance testing of AM machines. “The goal is more repeatable and trustworthy equipment and processes when producing components such as the turbine blades in gas turbine power generators,” he explained. The equipment requires a controlled environment that monitors humidity and limits vibrations, which the engineering college has provided in a specialized lab space.
Oerlikon AM US, Inc., the American headquarters of the Swiss corporation, is based in Huntersville, North Carolina. The company provides metal additive manufacturing solutions for creating lighter weight, more durable parts while optimizing production by minimizing waste and improving component reliability. Their services include metal powders, component manufacturing, and advanced surface treatments.
Source: engr.charlotte.edu
