- Machining center expertise forms the basis for patented technology
- Three print heads for combining different process requirements
- Cutting-edge safety concept enables automated operation
The CHIRON Group, specialist in the field of CNC-controlled vertical milling and turning machining centers, has developed the AM Cube, its first 3D printer for manufacturing larger, more complex components. It is suitable for coating and repairing components, as well as printing near net shape parts. With this new printer, the Tuttlingen-based CNC specialists are expending their core competencies to include additive manufacturing, alongside their existing focuses on metal machining and automation. In so doing, CHIRON aims to offer attractive complete solutions from a single source, incorporating this new, dynamic and growing market area. The AM Cube is one of the product highlights which the CHIRON Group will present at the OPEN HOUSE ONLINE, held from 14th to 19th May.
Additive manufacturing start-up
"The Additive Manufacturing department is a start-up within our own business group," explains Axel Boi, Head of Additive Manufacturing at the CHIRON Group. "With this 3D metal printer, made by CHIRON, we are creating a facility for manufacturing larger components with long procurement times and high material prices. This technology can be used effectively in the mechanical engineering, tool manufacturing, energy production and aerospace sectors. These are all important target sectors for the CHIRON Group", the expert adds.
Intuitive operation and programming
The new AM Cube is based on a conventional cartesian coordinate system, just like a CNC machining center. Operation and programming of the AM Cube is intuitive. The system is programmed either using a standardized DIN ISO code or, for complex components, using a CAD/CAM software tool. All aspects of the system can be controlled using tried-and-tested Siemens components, from hardware to the HMI through to programming of the AM Cube.
Unlike other 3D metal printers, the print head of the CHIRON AM Cube can be changed during an active printing/ coating process. This option enables the AM Cube to be used to combine different process requirements: For instance, one print head could be used to achieve a high surface quality, and another could be used to achieve a high deposition rate. The automatic head change function enables these properties to be combined in a single workpiece. This is another area where the professionals at CHIRON have put their comprehensive process expertise and many years of experience in using machining centers into practice. Due to the low quantities manufactured using this process, high flexibility is a crucial factor across all industries. The AM Cube is equipped with a total of three print heads. With the AM Cube, wire and powder as deposition material can be applied within a single manufacturing process in different production phases.
Deposition welding with different raw materials
By designing a printer for the two commonly used deposition materials – wire and powder – the machining center manufacturer has also patented a completely new technology. Both processes have their applications: While coating with powder is the most commonly used process, wire-based laser metal deposition offers better safety characteristics and an impressive reduction in waste material. Wire also has the benefit that every type of welding wire can be used for manufacturing.
The system is designed as a platform and can be reconfigured from 4-axis machining to 5-axis machining with relatively little effort. The AM Cube is equipped with cutting-edge sensors and meets all relevant safety requirements for operation without monitoring by the operator. If the AM Cube is used to machine particularly reactive materials such as titanium, the entire system can be flooded with protective gas to reduce oxidation, enabling manufacturing to be performed under a protective gas atmosphere for several hours.
OPEN HOUSE as a virtual trade fair
In order to ensure the suitability of this new solution for industrial applications, an intensive field test of the AM Cube is currently being performed by a pilot customer. This new technology will premiere on 14th May at the OPEN HOUSE ONLINE, which will take place as a virtual event due to the present situation.
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