US startup ADDiTEC recently launched a low-cost desktop-grade metal 3D printer. It is said that this product can realize the printing method of metal wire and metal powder mixing, which is a relatively rare metal 3D printing method in the industry.
This desktop metal 3D printer is called μPrinter. The overall volume is 390mmx390mmx1100mm, the build volume is 160mmx120mmx450mm, and it has three 200W diode lasers. The biggest feature of this device is with "automatic printing process control" function, which can automatically adjust the distance between the nozzle and the component, and manage various parameters in the printing process through sensors. If a print failure occurs, the controller will automatically return to the location where the problem occurred, cut with the built-in line cutter, and continue printing.
μPrinter is suitable for experimental applications.It can be used as a water test product before purchasing a large DED system.
ADDiTEC's next step is to develop a larger metal 3D printer, mPrinter. The overall volume of the device is about 750mmx750mmx1000mm, and the build volume will be in the range of 2mx2mx3m. In addition, they are also targeting the field of mass production, and plan to develop a modular production system μCluster consisting of six μPrinters. The system is managed by a robot that can remove prints, replace build platforms, and automatically start new print tasks.