DMG Mori has announced the latest updates to its entry-level Lasertec 30 SLM 3D printer, the Gen 3, with some key new design features for better parts, easier handling and safer operation.
The 300 x 300 x 300mm build chamber machine features a programmable 1200w laser for Adaptive Beam Control, with an 1500w option available.
Temperature changes that cause thermal expansion within the machine are inevitable and DMG Mori says that its years of experience in minimising the effect of and compensating for temperature changes within its products means that is has taken measures to isolate the build chamber within the machine. The Floating Process Chamber is free to expand in all directions during temperature variations, decoupling it and any thermal affect from the build plane.
Likewise, the optics of the Lasertec 30 SLM Gen 3 are mounted on the rigid casting Gantry Frame, isolated from thermal effect. To further ensure a build free from thermal expansion, the recoater is also mounted to the frame and decoupled from the Floating Process Chamber.
In addition, the Z-axis on which the build is mounted actively compensates for displacement. Via this design, DMG Mori state that problems related to the position and distance between the optics and the top surface of the powder bed can be eliminated.
To reduce time between build jobs and to increase flexibility, the rePlug units – self-contained automated metal powder processing units that can be exchanged with others of a different metal powder – have been a differeantiator and have increased safer material handling.
The Gen 3 machine continues to rely on the rePLUG system to ensure top quality powder is continually in use. Excess powder from the working area is fully recycled while remaining contained within the rePLUG, all under an inert gas atmosphere within a closed loop.
This helps minimise oxidization risk or any moisture build-up, and reduces potential operator exposure to the powder, an important safety consideration – as well as making changing between different materials much easier.
Related components inside the machine itself can be easily cleaned, with its designers claiming the Lasertec 30 SLM Gen 3 as the quickest machine to change between materials on the market – widening the range of applications that a single machine can be used for.
The newly designed inert gas flow over the powder bed ensures a consistent laminar flow during operation. The secondary gas flow below the protective glass aims to avoid any residue build-up on the protective glass – with a wind tunnel like design ensures unprecedented gas flow performance through the Lasertec 30 SLM.
The protection glass itself is under constant observation by a secondary camera system that gives a warning if it detects a problem. Additional lighting is provided around the protective glass to support the operator when checking and cleaning the protective glass between build jobs.
The Celos X operating environment guides the operator through all the steps required to get a job running, as well as the powder refilling process, daily checks and how maintenance operations are to be performed. Condition Agent has also been added, allowing users to visualize machine conditions and benefit from highly accurate predictive maintenance without reliance on operator skill and experience.
The DMG Mori Lasertec 30 SLM Gen 3 is the latest evolution of its small format machine developed from the company’s acquisition of German 3D printed firm Realizer in 2017, and as the 3D printing landscape ramps up around powderbed SLS metal AM solutions, and presents an interesting offering.
