Laser metal Deposition a Technology Breakthrough

The Emergence of Laser Metal Deposition to Meltio’s Wire-Laser Metal 3D Printing Solution- Precision and Innovation Redefined

As one of the newer branches of metal 3D printing, Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) uses welding wire as its primary raw material. It also belongs to the Direct Energy Deposition group of metal printing.

Metal 3D printing has come a long way since it first appeared in the early 1990s. The concept of metal 3D printing progressed from sintering of metal powder to wire laser metal deposition, a wire-based methodology.

To understand the evolution of Metal 3D printing, we have to revisit the 1970s time period. In the 1970s, Marshall Jones introduced the laser welding method – LBW. Later, Marshall Jones invented a laser-based fiber laser for cutting purposes, followed by its use for welding and angular drilling. The technology advanced slowly due to costly investments and recurring energy expenses. Technology advanced to introduce splitting the beam and heating two materials, leading the way to Wire Laser Metal Deposition and the arrival of additive manufacturing – a groundbreaking technology in the later years.

Emergence of Additive Manufacturing Technology – A Revolution in Machine Printing Technology

Additive manufacturing is a more rapid technology than the early existing methods viz. MIG or TIG welding. The USP of additive manufacturing is a superior final product and a better bonding property. The laser’s reflective properties and the deep penetration of the melting field in the material lead to better bonding.

Increasing Popularity of Laser Welding (LBW)

Manufacturers preferred laser welding (LBW) technology to connect thin surfaces while reducing the deformation risk. Its lowered melting point and fusing abilities popularised this welding procedure.

An impending need for an instrument for stability led to precision welding and the development of a stable robotic arm.

Also, there was a demand to have in place trained welding operators to deliver the required precision in welding tasks. High investment costs and ensuing hurdles seemed problematic for a brief period.

The 2000s paved the way for robotics, especially in the form of accessible technology, which soon led to the fusion of laser welding and robotics heralding the era of laser metal technology. Undoubtedly, this fusion has enabled seamless 3D printing solutions while resolving multiple issues associated with laser welding.

Meltio’s Multi-laser Deposition Head – Top-class winning methodology

In 2019, Meltio, Italy, took the lead to deliver modern 3D printing solutions catering to additive manufacturing processes. Meltio’s Wire-Laser Metal 3D Printing is one of its most innovative 3D printing solutions.

Meltio has developed a unique deposition head system with multiple lasers surrounding the melting pool. These lasers influence the welding wire and the melting site in the preferred direction of work. Moreover, they do not affect the bond’s strength and quality.

These multiple lasers proved stability during the deposition, irrespective of the printing direction. The machine enjoys stability due to the coaxial laser head with the multiple laser sources and the wire from the center. In all, the control of the printing process still rests with the old technology.

The most intuitive feature of Meltio devices is their system, which controls the position during 3 or more axis. It also controls and maintains the fixed distance between the earlier layer and the following layer.

Fitted with a coaxial laser head and multiple lasers, operators can control the element printing happening in the Z axis. They can slso get better accuracy with the other axes.

Meltio’s wire laser 3D Printing solution is much more durable. It offers a decent deposition distance for improving the printing process and the outcome quality. The deposition layers help to deliver uniformity in the entire element while the deposited metals are carefully layered.

Meanwhile, you can check out the brilliant options available with Meltio’s wire laser 3D Printing, which are

  • Stand-alone 3D Printer
  • Possible integration with a CNC Machine – operate additive and subtractive processes with added convenience.
  • Use it as a system with a robotic arm and get the leeway to print geometrically tough elements and/or create preferred external coatings.

Phillips Machine Tools has partnered with Meltio to provide the best additive manufacturing solutions in India and the UAE. Our Additive expert is available to guide you through the manufacturing process and also help you make the right decision for purchasing metal 3D printer.

When it comes to 3D metal printers and related products, Phillips Machine Tools provides extended service support. In addition to regular maintenance, we also provide help and support for installation, printing solution repairs, machine applications, and spare component procurement.

Get in Touch

Get in Touch

Get in Touch

Get in Touch

Let us help you to scale smarter, Standardize the excellence

Our expert-led training and CoE implementations turn complex industrial challenges into streamlined, scalable successes. We partner with you to refine your processes and upskill your workforce, securing a dominant position in the global market.

Email us at : EducationIndia@phillipscorp.com

VISIT US

Phillips Education
Plot No. W-225, TTC Industrial Area,
Khairne MIDC, Navi Mumbai – 400710, MH, India

Get in touch with us