EOS prepares to introduce platform-based M 400 production AM machine
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EOS's latest additive manufacturing (AM) machine, the M 400, is suitable for research and development through to series production. Its 400 by 400 by 400 mm build chamber allows the manufacture of larger components or more smaller parts from metal powder layer by layer. The level of automation has also been raised, commensurate with serial production.
The basic model will become available from spring 2014, with global distribution planned from the summer.
EOS managing director Adrian Keppler says: "We are pursuing a platform-based strategy for metal AM technology and we will be expanding this with successive performance modules. We are able to support customers from the research and development phase through to series production."
Within a year, says EOS, automated unpacking will be available for the EOS M 400. With this extension of the system, an exchangeable frame including components and residual powder is moved following the build process from the process station to the unpacking station. Here, loose and excess powder will quickly be cleaned away by programmable rotation and vibration.
The modular concept makes it possible to incorporate the unpacking station retroactively to expand on the set-up and process stations.
The first extension to the basic model, with its corresponding processes, will initially be offered with EOS Aluminium AlSi10Mg and EOS NickelAlloy IN718 materials and is therefore particularly suited to use in the automobile and aerospace sectors. Processes for further materials are still in the development phase, including both tool steel and titanium.
The laser In the EOS M 400 has an up to 1,000 W output, allowing the use of materials that require more power. A user interface with a touchscreen simplifies system usability. The handling process has been improved and the filter from the air filtration system is automatically cleaned and has a longer service life. EOS has also optimised the monitoring and reporting functions for improved quality control.
While the single-laser version opens the way for the development of new applications, the focus of the EOS M 400-4 multi-mode variant planned for the following year, lies in productivity increases in qualified production processes that have already been achieved for the EOSINT M 280.
