DMP Factory 500 Integrates 3D Systems, GF Machining Solutions Expertise

3D Systems and Georg Fischer AG’s Division GF Machining Solutions have introduced the DMP Factory 500, a scalable manufacturing system designed to build high-quality metal parts ranging to 500 × 500 × 500 mm with lower total cost of operation. The system’s modular design enables continuous function of metal 3D printing and powder management modules to maximize uptime, throughput and operation valuable. The system can be customized to the user’s production workflow and supports data connectivity with major ERP systems for supply chain optimization.

The DMP Factory 500 is comprised of five function-specific modules. The Printer Module (PTM) is designed to withstand 24/7 production cycles with maximum printer uptime and output. The Removable Print Module (RPM) is a sealed module for powder and part transport between 3D printer, powder and transport modules featuring a vacuum chamber to ensure the lowest O₂ content enabling high-quality 3D-printed metal parts. Powder waste is eliminated, as the vacuum chamber guarantees consistent high material quality, sufficient to be re-used to depletion, the company says.

The Powder Management Module (PMM) efficiently de-powders parts on build platforms, automatically recycles unused powder materials, and prepares the RPM for the next build. The Transport Module (TRM) enables efficient movement of the RPMs between printer and powder modules, reducing production time. Finally, the Parking Module (PAM) stores fully prepared RPMs for the next print job in an inert environment.

The additive manufacturing platform is integrated with GF Machining Solutions’ System 3R referencing and clamping system. Zero-point clamping enables optimal positioning of the build plate, facilitating a quick transition from the 3D printer to postprocessing steps. This integrated feature reduces set-up times and provides enhanced flexibility by quickly transitioning the build plate from the additive process and sending it downstream for postprocessing, saving time and money.

“This partnership joins two industry leaders in additive and subtractive manufacturing to deliver a solution that will change production manufacturing environments,” says Pascal Boillat, president, GF Machining Solutions. “The blending of GF Machining Solutions’ precision machining expertise with 3D Systems’ standard-setting additive manufacturing technologies will ultimately redefine metal parts production.”

Automation of the additive manufacturing process is a priority of this solution, and the companies are focused on developing solutions to seamlessly integrate additive manufacturing technology into the complete manufacturing process chain. To facilitate this, GF Machining Solutions has filed a patent application for a new carrier concept. This flexible solution allows the user to position and locate build plates on the Removable Print Module and provides links to automated conventional machining processes. This concept will contribute significantly to increased automation possibilities and reduction of build plates costs, the company says.

The DMP Factory 500 Solution is complemented by integrated software including 3D Systems’ 3DXpert to manage the 3D printing workflow from design to manufacture. Additionally, DMP Monitoring facilitates real-time process monitoring to enable informed decisions on product quality.

Combining 3D Systems’ and GF Machining Solutions’ sales and support networks, DMP Factory 500 customers will have access to a distribution network operating in more than 50 countries. In addition to local technical support, customers will have access to metals manufacturing applications experts at Customer Innovation Centers (CICs) in Leuven, Belgium; Denver, Colorado and Stabio, Switzerland. Customers will be able to collaborate with application engineers in these locations to optimize their DMP Factory 500 system to meet their unique business needs.

“The DMP Factory 500 is transforming and redefining how manufacturing gets done,” says Vyomesh Joshi, president and chief executive officer, 3D Systems. “Through our partnership with GF Machining Solutions, manufacturers will have a solution that combines additive and subtractive manufacturing and provides a simplified workflow.”