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Automation

Copper, New Metal Printing Processes, Upgrades Based on Software and More from Formnext 2023: AM Radio #46

Formnext 2023 showed that additive manufacturing may be maturing, but it is certainly not stagnant. In this episode, we dive into observations around technology enhancements, new processes and materials, robots, sustainability and more trends from the show. 

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Formnext

10 Video Reports From Formnext 2023

Our Formnext video playlist: Stephanie Hendrixson and Peter Zelinski report on various technologies seen at Formnext 2023 in brief videos they filmed at the show.

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8 Cool Parts From Formnext 2023: The Cool Parts Show #65

New additive manufacturing technologies on display at Formnext were in many cases producing notable end-use components. Here are some of the coolest parts we found at this year’s show.

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When Additive and Conventional Processes Work Together, the Result Is Manufacturing

Various recent articles demonstrate 3D printing and established processes finding one another and working together.

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LPBF

Inspection Method to Increase Confidence in Laser Powder Bed Fusion

Researchers developed a machine learning framework for identifying flaws in 3D printed products using sensor data gathered simultaneously with production, saving time and money while maintaining comparable accuracy to traditional post-inspection. The approach, developed in partnership with aerospace and defense company RTX, utilizes a machine learning algorithm trained on CT scans to identify flaws in printed products.

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Consumer Goods

3D Printed Ductile Spikes for Better Sound Quality: The Cool Parts Show Bonus

Work on 3D printing flexible metal bellows has led to other applications, including the development of ductile spikes that sit between a speaker and the surface below to help limit vibration and isolate the audio equipment. 

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Production AM Can Thrive in a Purpose-Built Space (But It Doesn't Need One) AM Radio #45

Fiona Lawler and Stephanie Hendrixson discuss the physical spaces where additive manufacturing is happening, from 3D printers wedged wherever they’ll fit to brand new facilities built for this purpose. 

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Sand

AM 101: What Is Binder Jetting? (Includes Video)

Binder jetting requires no support structures, is accurate and repeatable, and is said to eliminate dimensional distortion problems common in some high-heat 3D technologies. Here is a look at how binder jetting works and its benefits for additive manufacturing.

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Metal

DMG MORI: Build Plate “Pucks” Cut Postprocessing Time by 80%

For spinal implants and other small 3D printed parts made through laser powder bed fusion, separate clampable units resting within the build plate provide for easy transfer to a CNC lathe.

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Metal

Flexible Bellows Made Through Metal 3D Printing: The Cool Parts Show #64

Can laser powder bed fusion create metal parts with controlled flexibility? We explore an example in this episode of The Cool Parts Show. 

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More on Testing a 3D Printed Metal Bellows: The Cool Parts Show All Access

Günter Kappler, designer of the metal bellows in episode 64, describes the extent of the testing that has gone into validating the performance of these 3D printed parts.

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Additive Manufacturing in Transportation: How It Moves Us

Transportation is experiencing unprecedented pressure to move people and goods farther, faster, cheaper and more sustainably. The Barnes Global Advisors and Wabtec discuss the role that additive manufacturing is playing for rail transportation, and how 3D printed parts such as manifolds are qualified for this industry.

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Acquire
Airtech
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SolidCAM Additive - Upgrade Your Manufacturing