PECM Issue 37 2019 | Page 43

EDITOR’S CHOICE GAS-TIGHT BLOWERS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHODS In selective laser melting (SLM) a stable inert gas atmosphere must be ensured within the built chamber of the machine. A specified temperature range is also essential. Only under these conditions can high quality components be produced. It is further necessary to remove metal splash and smoke developing during the melting process. At formnext (hall 3.0, stand H 69) Gebr. Becker GmbH will be presenting two blower types developed precisely for these and similar applications. The key dif-ference to other series is the gas-tight design which permits the precise control of the gas flow as well as the removal of contamination from the process. In combi-nation with also gas- tight heat exchangers from the programme of Gebr. Becker they also create the conditions for an exact temperature control of the additive manufacturing process. For plants with a small built chamber the gas-tight and speed- controlled VASF side channel blowers of size 1.50 are ideal (figure 1). They are of a highly com-pact construction and can be easily integrated in the plants, enabling the flow management of the inert gas in the closed circuit and low energy operation as required. • Vibration Sensors (IEPE + 4-20mA) • Test & Measurement Sensors • Hazardous Area Vibration Sensors • Seismic Sensors • Hydrophones • Vector Sensors • Proximity Probes • Vibration Switches For larger plants in additive manufacturing and the correspondingly higher volume flows of inert gas the gas-tight side channel blower VARIAIR SV 300 is used. Here too, the speed-controlled energy-efficient drive enables the delivery rate to be adapted to the actual requirements. Both blowers are designed for 24/7 industrial operation and proven worldwide in numerous demanding applications. Due to their gas-tight design they are suitable for the requirements of additive manufacturing in high- grade atmospheres. www.becker-international.com Figure 1 RMIG is the world's largest manufacturer and supplier of perforated metal and its related products. We know our customers’ requirements for price and quality and meet their demands with uncompromising service. Not only do we offer standard and bespoke perforated metal sheets, we are able to offer you a range of secondary operations as detailed below. Complete solutions With a continued investment in the latest equipment and a network of professional partners we are able to produce prime quality products and solutions – from a simple perforated sheet to the fully formed and coated custom made part. Certifications Including FM, CSA, ATEX and IECEx Offer Compliance to Customers Worldwide • Cable Assemblies • Enclosures • Vibration Transmitters • Supportive Instrumentation New Inclinometer range! Visit our website for more information WORLD-CLASS SENSORS FOR INDUSTRY +44 (0)1767 651058 www.kdpes.co.uk Levelling For some applications a high degree of flatness is required, we have processes in place to ensure our perforated coils and sheets meet with your most demanding requirements. Rolling and forming We can roll, bend and form perforated sheets to match your design. Aesthetic finishes and protective coating We can offer powder coating and hot dip galvanizing solutions to meet your specifications. For more information please contact us www.rmig.com email: [email protected] Tel: 01925 839610 Cutting We can cut and shape perforated sheet to meet the needs of your final application. Issue 37 PECM 43