In this article you will learn
- What 3d printing technology Aconity MIDI is based on?
- What are the key technical features of the Aconity MIDI?
- How does AMAZEMET’s Aconity MIDI contribute to the development of new materials?
- How does the Aconity MIDI’s enhance printing efficiency and what benefits does it offer?
- What opportunities does the Aconity MIDI provide for research and development, and in what industries is it particularly useful?
AMAZEMET has recently added a new LPBF system to its equipment lineup: Aconity MIDI – 3D metal printer based on Laser Powder Bed Fusion technology from Aconity3D GmbH. Thanks to fully programable process conditions and customizable modular build, it offers a boost in developing new materials for additive manufacturing.
Technical Features of the Aconity MIDI
The Aconity MIDI can be fully tailored to your needs. Check the list of key technical features of the system that we use for developing new materials obtained by ultrasonic atomization:
- Build volume of Ø 170 mm x H 200 mm with the possibility to reduce platform size to Ø 55 mm, accommodating a range of project sizes.
- Single Mode 400 W laser with Gaussian intensity profile with “on the fly” spot size adjustment from 80 – 500 µm (planned expansion of 1000 W laser to enhance productivity)
- High-temperature preheating up to 1200 °C for materials prone to solidification cracking and in-situ heat treatment,
- Exchangeable process chamber that allows for rapid material shifts, reducing downtime and cross-contamination significantly.
- Advanced process monitoring tools to fully understand the process and analyze the phenomena occurring in laser-powder bed interactions.
New possibilities with Aconity MIDI
Dual-Laser System for Increased Efficiency
The optional dual-laser system in the Aconity MIDI facilitates quicker, more efficient printing processes. This feature is particularly beneficial for projects requiring high throughput, allowing us to meet client needs more effectively. Dual-Laser systems allow for the development of new scanning strategies for demanding materials like metal matrix composites.
Technical Versatility and Customization
The Aconity3D MIDI stands out with its unique chamber design, allowing easy and quick alloy changes. A notable feature of the AconityMIDI is its ability to reduce the working field to a diameter of just 55mm, along with a powder feeder. It enables printing from minimal powder quantities (e.g., 20 cm3). This flexibility is crucial for developing and comparing different materials to fully take advantage of the high heating/cooling rates occurring in the LPBF process.
Innovations in Multi-Material 3D Printing
A distinctive capability of Aconity3D’s printers, particularly the MICRO and MIDI+ models, is the Aerosint multi-material printing system. This system allows controlled application of up to three different powders in one layer. Thanks to this Aconity MIDI vastly expands the potential for printing complex functional elements like aerospike nozzle.
High-Temperature Capabilities and Advanced Laser Control
The printers’ capability to install heated build platforms, reaching temperatures up to 800°C for resistive heating and even 1200°C in induction heating mode, enables the processing of brittle materials like intermetallic phases of TiAl. The advanced laser scanning control system in Aconity3D printers offers oscillation modes and multiple re-melting of the powder bed. It allows precise adjustment to the specifications of each material and locally tailoring its microstructure.
Multi-Laser Printing Strategies and Beam Shaping
Aconity3D pushes the boundaries with the option of equipping their machines with up to four 1200W lasers. In the MIDI+ and TWO models, these lasers can operate across the entire build space – a distinct advantage over other multi-laser printers. Furthermore, the beam shaping function from nLIGHT, allowing the generation of a ring-shaped spot and dynamic modification, offers immense potential for high-efficiency processes and precise detailing by changing the meltpool dynamics.
Green Laser Technology
An attractive option offered by Aconity3D is the incorporation of a green laser up to 500W, enhancing the processing of high-reflectivity materials, such as pure copper, aluminum, and precious metals.
Modular Construction for Tailored Solutions
The modular construction of Aconity3D printers allows for various configuration options and the addition of components post-purchase, evolving with the user’s needs to become even more versatile and efficient.
Collaboration and Partnership: A Versatile Tool for Various Industries
In addition to enhancing our in-house capabilities, the Aconity MIDI also strengthens our ability to collaborate on various projects. This allows us to work closely with our partners, facilitating joint research projects and innovative collaborations. Whether for industrial applications or academic research, the Aconity MIDI provides the tools to explore new ideas and solutions.
The Aconity MIDI is suited for various industrial applications, including aerospace, automotive, and medical technology. Its precision and ability to create complex structures make it a valuable asset for custom part fabrication.
Looking Forward: Research and Development Opportunities
The Aconity3D opens up new scientific research and development possibilities. Its capability to work with a wide range of materials and precise process monitoring make it an excellent tool for experimental and innovative projects. This system enables us to delve into new material studies and advanced printing techniques in EU-funded projects.
With the Aconity MIDI, AMAZEMET is set to explore new possibilities in metal 3D printing. This addition is not just about expanding our machine park. It’s about opening new doors in additive manufacturing and research, especially when combined with ultrasonic atomization technology. All of these technologies and solutions help us to produce powder from almost any alloying system.
For more information about our services and the capabilities of the Aconity MIDI, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at sales@amazemet.com. If you have an idea for a new alloy for additive manufacturing, let’s cooperate!
