Oct 6, 2016 | By Benedict
ExOne, a 3D printing company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is introducing modifications to its Innovent 3D printer that will enable the machine to process metal and ceramic powders at less than 10 microns. A modification package is available for existing Innovent users.
The ExOne Innovent binder jetting 3D printer is capable of printing both metal and ceramic objects with a high density and quality surface finish (as low as Ra 120 µin). It is designed for industrial research and development, commercial and laboratory research, and can be used for both prototyping and production purposes. ExOne has today introduced a fine powder version of the Innovent machine, as well as an upgrade package for existing machines. The company will also apply these upgrades to its M-Flex system and large-format printing system.
“The fine powder Innovent is a critical technology milestone along ExOne's product development roadmap for our direct printing equipment,” said Jim McCarley, CEO of ExOne. “It is expected to complement traditional manufacturing processes within the Metal Injection Molding and Powder Metal industries.”
In addition to its new 3D printer capabilities, ExOne is also introducing a 3D printing material for the Innovent and other systems. This new material is stainless steel 316L, a 300 Series stainless steel used in a number of fields, from automotive to chemical processing equipment to surgical instruments. It is the company’s second single-metal alloy for industrial 3D printing applications. At present, ExOne customers will be able to order “job shop” 3D printed products made from 316L, with full commercialization expected in the first quarter of 2017.
According to ExOne, the fine powder advancements made to the Innovent 3D printer and other systems will enable the company to make headway in commercial, energy, and automotive applications. “This Innovent advancement demonstrates how our expanded machine capability allows us to increase our materials portfolio,” McCarley added. “As we further develop our equipment and materials portfolio, we will continue to broaden the industries which 3D print products using binder jetting.”
ExOne, headquartered just outside of Pittsburgh, PA, but with locations around the world, is a provider of both 3D printing equipment and 3D printing services. The company sells 3D printers and 3D printing materials, and also carries out print jobs for customers using its in-house printers. A number of ExOne 3D printing systems were acquired by General Electric earlier this year for use in the new GE additive manufacturing facility in Pittsburgh. GE will reportedly invest $39 million in the facility over a three-year period.
ExOne Innovent specs:
- Build volume: 6.3 x 2.5 x 2.5 in. (160 x 65 x 65 mm)
- Build speed: 30-60 seconds/layer
- Layer thickness: 0.002 in. (50.0 μm)
- Print resolution: X/Y 0.003/0.002 in. (63.5 μm/ 60.0 μm) Z 0.004 in. (100.0 μm)
Posted in 3D Printer Company
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