Not only can 3D printing build parts, layer by layer, some metal additive systems repair already built parts. Optomec is one company with such a capability.
BeAM Machines, Inc. is a new entrant into the U.S. market. BeAM is a spin-off of 30-year-old French Laser research center. It is working with the support of Fives Machining to serve the US market and will manufacture its large-part metal additive machines in the U.S.
BeAM uses its Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) process to add functional shapes and additional functions to parts, as well as repair metal parts. LMD consists of laser melted metallic powder fed through a deposition nozzle to create a layer-by-layer construction with perfect CNC-controlled dimensions.
BeAM machines support a range of materials such as stainless steel, titanium, nickel alloys, cobalt chromium and more. As a general rule, any material that can be laser welded is potentially suitable for use with LMD technology.
A range of standard and custom nozzles are available for most industrial applications. The fully integrated BeAM LMD machines are CE-certified, modular, upgradable, and accurate. They operate in a controlled atmosphere with a secure powder environment.
Established in the European aeronautics, space and defense fields, BeAM was the first manufacturer of LMD machines to obtain the highest aeronautical-quality standards certification to repair critical parts. This certification has effectively extended the lifetime of key parts from 10,000 to 60,000 hours, thus saving their clients valuable time and money.
Tim Bell, a 10-year veteran of additive manufacturing, will serve as general manager and Vice President of business development for the US subsidiary. “The US market is fairly mature when it comes to additive manufacturing and we believe BeAM’s advanced technology will be well received due to its industrial approach and support. We aim to accelerate the development of the LMD market and we’re looking to lead LMD industrial machine manufacturers in developing new applications in the field of manufacturing and repair,” said Bell.
BeAM machines for the US market will be manufactured at one of the Fives’ machine tool facilities located in the US.
BeAM Machines Inc.
www.beam-machines.com
