Direct Metal Printing uses additive manufacturing technology. In the machine, a high-precision laser is directed to metal powder particles in order to selectively build up thin subsequent horizontal metal layers. The metal powder particles pinpointed by the laser quickly and fully melt so that the new material properly attaches to the previous layer, without glue or binder liquid.
The powerful fiber laser with high energy intensity inside the machine guarantees that metal parts exhibit a dense and homogenous material structure. CAD directly drives the machine without requiring any programming, clamping or tooling. The 3D printing approach is capable of simultaneously producing metal parts of different shapes in series of up to 20,000 pieces, ensuring that the laser gains systematic access to any location while building up parts. In this way, the most complex part shapes can be produced, including recesses, ribs, cavities and internal features.
Having full control over the production process, Quickparts achieves a homogeneous micro structure with a relative density of up to 99.98%, for an increasing number of metals and alloys. Research shows that the mechanical properties are virtually the same as those of conventional metals. To prove this, Quickparts systematically carries out mechanical tests on the level of density, hardness, elongation and fatigue. Prior to production, the chemical composition of the bulk metal powders are examined in a chemical laboratory.