XJet empowers manufacturers with automated post-processing of ceramic AM parts
Automated, repeatable, low cost production is now possible with the SMART station system from XJet. It provides the last link in the chain for automated end-to-end additive manufacturing using XJet NanoParticle Jetting.
SMART (Support Material Automatic Removal Technology) works seamlessly with all XJet Carmel additive materials (AM) systems, automating the removal of the soluble support material and eliminating the need to depend on operator expertise, said XJet. The water-based system has a selection of programs, with different water level, flow rate and other parameters, to suit any given tray of parts. The system uses algorithms to suggest the appropriate program.
“The SMART station delivers the final missing link in AM,” asserted Dror Danai, XJet chief business officer. Making the soluble support material even easier to remove makes part production really easy and allowing virtually any geometry, because water can access even the smallest channels that the company’s printing enables, he added.
“XJet technology is designed for manufacturers who want to build better parts for real-world applications. We examine the whole workflow to see what can be done to reduce production time, minimise operational costs, and ensure the premium quality of parts is repeatable,” said Danai.
XJet’s soluble support material works with all its ceramic and metal build materials. The ability to gently melt away the support ensures any fine details and complex geometries of parts are preserved throughout the post processing process. The introduction of end-to-end automation – from support generation to support removal – allows manufacturers to produce premium quality parts, with all the benefits of additive manufacturing.
“One of our beta customers has reported a 90 per cent reduction in cleaning time . . . using the XJet SMART station,” says Danai. “Additive manufacturing is supposed to offer true design freedom and complex geometries with zero additional cost. Our soluble support material delivers those capabilities – even for tiny cavities. Now with the SMART station our customers can benefit from simple, predictable, low-cost operation.”
XJet provides industry-leading high-definition 3D printing solutions that empower companies to create revolutionary products in ceramics and metals.
