EOS will show the EOSINT M 280 direct metal laser-sintering (DMLS) system for the first time in North American at the RAPID 2011 show (May 24-26, Minneapolis, Minnesota). Innovative process and control features of the M 280 complete the evolution of DMLS systems into full-fledged production tools for the economical, batch-size, optimized manufacture of parts at all stages from prototyping through finished product.
“Our newest system reflects a growing demand, led by precision-driven industries such as aerospace and medical manufacturing, for laser-sintering as a proven production method,” says Andy Snow, Regional Sales Director at EOS of North America. “The M 280 can build fully functional parts in a range of materials, with standardization and quality assurance capabilities on a par with those of traditional processes.”
The new DMLS equipment expands on the capabilities of the EOSINT M 270. Among the features for creating end-use parts are:
• Either a 200- or a 400-watt solid-state laser for targeted radiation and consistently accurate performance
• Laser Power Monitoring (LPM) to control the build process
• The ability to use either nitrogen or argon protective atmospheres. This allows the machine to manufacture in light metals, tooling steel, and super alloys that include titanium, aluminum, cobalt chrome, and Inconel.
Available options for controlled manufacturing, such as Part Property Profiles for standardized production and Integrated Process Chain Management modules, can be added to the M 280 at any time.
In addition to introducing a DMLS system, EOS is also exhibiting recently developed metal and plastic materials for specialized industrial uses:
• EOS NickelAlloy IN625. Material properties such as high tensile strength, excellent processability and good corrosion resistance make this super alloy highly suited for use in aerospace, chemical, motor sport and marine industry applications.
• PrimePart FR (PA 2241 FR). This material is flame-retardant and particularly suitable for aerospace. Based on PA 12 polyamide, it has an 11% elongation at break—significantly higher than its predecessor, PA 2210FR. It also has a lower refresh rate (ratio of new to re-used powder), offering cost savings and environmental benefits.
• PrimePart ST (PEBA). This flexible elastomeric polyether block amide has unique customizable mechanical properties. Different laser-exposure strategies can be used to create either hard or soft components. PrimePart ST has an excellent refresh rate, making it an environmentally favorable alternative to other flexible materials for laser-sintering. With this plastic, previously impossible laser-sintered applications, such as flexible fasteners, seals or buffers, are possible.
EOS
www.eos.info
