Case Study
Laser Metal Fusion (LMF), a manufacturing process where a
laser builds up the component layer by layer in the powder
bed. “This process is perfect for complex geometries. We
need these to put these functions – that is, maximum
cleaning performance with minimum water consumption –
into practice,” explains Arikcan. TRUMPF experts streamlined
the component’s design so it can be printed without any
supporting structures, and with no finishing to be done
afterwards. This printing process is software-driven, so the
imperfections associated with manual gluing have been
relegated to history.
TRUMPF staff enlarged the nozzle attachment and added an
outer channel guide to improve the component’s properties.
This serves to furnish air to the system and creates a tighter
throw pattern when the jet hits the surface to be cleaned.
The preforms with the add-on component can be screwed
into the bombs immediately upon printing. The substrate
plate does not even have to be removed from the machine
GHM edia
B usiness
to do this. “For the first time, this will allow 10,000 nozzle
inserts to be manufactured per year,” notes Arikcan.
Twofold increase in machine availability and
improved component properties
TRUMPF experts set up a test bed to examine and validate
the 3D-printed components. “Measurements have shown
that this shortens the job time for conventional steps by 53
percent,” says a clearly delighted Arikcan. The parts were
made with the TruPrint 1000 3D printer; developed by
TRUMPF, it features a single laser. This expert is confident
that the time savings will be even greater with a multi-
laser system. The new nozzles also deliver more persuasive
performance with benefit of improved jet guidance. “We
demonstrated that the water jet flows smoother than with
the conventional design. We also expect the pressure on the
surface to increase and water consumption to decrease,”
says Arikcan. Another positive side effect is that this boosts
turning and milling stations’ availability.
TRUMPF not only manufactures the
machines, systems, laser beam sources,
and all optical components required
for 3D printing; the company also has
the necessary technology, process and
digitalization skills. It is the only AM
provider worldwide to have the full
package, the entire skill-set under one
roof. “We think in terms of form and
function, which means we look at the
product portfolio together with the
customer and recommend 3D printing
where it makes sense. Quality, cost
reduction and time savings are our most
important goals,” says Arikcan by way of
explanation.
www.trumpf.com
31 | january-february 2019 |
Global MDA Journal
Global
MDA
Journal