Masters of sintering plastics, EOS has launched the EOS P 810, a large frame, dual laser system specifically designed to process a new high-performance, carbon fibre reinforced PEKK-based material, called HT-23.
Developed in close cooperation with Boeing, this world’s first economic, high-temperature polymer AM solution addresses industry requirements for ‘demanding high-performance parts’ as required by the aerospace industry, though we suspect it will find uses in other industries, particularly given its large build volume.
The P 810 machine is built to only build using this new powder, with a build volume of 700 x 380 x 380 mm, with two 70-watt lasers with EOS focussing on dimensional accuracy and productivity – other interesting notes are the relatively low refresh rate for the powder (40%) particularly for filled polymer powder material.
Scott Killian, aerospace business development manager, EOS North America, emphasises: “The aerospace industry has to meet challenging requirements when it comes to UV resistance, flame retardancy and meeting Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) such as FAR 25.853, which sets standards for materials within compartment interiors.
“Additive Manufacturing enables the design and manufacturing of complex geometries without expensive tooling.
“This allows aerospace OEM’s to replace composite parts which to date are being produced manually via carbon fiber laminating. They can also replace aluminum parts with HT-23 while still meeting the material strength properties required for the application.
“With the EOS P 810, our customers can produce lightweight parts, reduce time for production and parts assembly, and cut overall costs-per-part.”
EOS explained more about the development of the EOS P 810 with the aid of Boeing, suggesting that it enabled the aerospace giant to reach high demands for weight reduction, cost efficiency and reduced assembly time for components.
Killian added, that: “Intensive testing of the final parts from the EOS P 810 proves the technology platform addresses Boeing’s needs and allows them to achieve homogenous part properties within the overall building volume, a key factor for cost efficient manufacturing of air ducts, small turbines and holders.”
