LMD technology works by using a coaxial nozzle to blow powder onto a substrate in layers, which are then melted with a laser, and it can be used to repair, modify or add on to existing parts, whether or not they are 3D printed. Now, Formalloy is releasing its newest LMD L-series machine model, which features a pretty unique capability – Blue Laser technology from NUBURU Inc. in Colorado.
In addition to the Blue wavelength laser, the turnkey system also features a customizable build volume, 5-axis capability, an inert gas build chamber, and scientific monitoring capability, and can be used to not only 3D print metallic parts, but also repair and clad them, using a wider variety of materials more accurately and quickly than other comparable processes.“Formalloy is proud to introduce to the Additive Manufacturing world a groundbreaking technology: the Blue Wavelength Laser,” Formalloy President and Founder Jeff Riemann told 3DPrint.com. “With Blue Laser technology, Formalloy systems can now process copper alloys with greater quality and efficiency than what’s previously been possible.”
“NASA is leveraging Formalloy’s laser metal deposition technology for development and feasibility studies to investigate scalability of additive manufacturing for large, high value components,” said Paul Gradl, NASA Senior Propulsion Engineer. “Laser metal deposition technology is being explored as an alternative to powder bed technology for key components such as rocket nozzles.”
The space agency has completed tensile and quality testing on samples that were 3D printed on the A222, and will continue feasibility studies with Formalloy in hopes of reducing material cost, build time, and weight when producing parts like rocket engine components.
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