Mitsubishi Electric Corp has launched two models of the ‘AZ600’ wire-laser metal 3-D printer, which melts welding wire with a laser beam to create high-quality 3-D structures.
Mitsubishi says its digital additive-manufacturing (AM) technology combined with simultaneous five-axis spatial control and coordinated control of machining conditions is a world first (as of 24 February 2022, according to its research) that delivers stable high-quality 3-D printing.
“Furthermore, this technology contributes to manufacturing in a decarbonised era by: reducing energy consumption; saving resources by shortening processing times and using highly efficient production methods such as ‘near-net-shape’; and supporting the build-up of repairs for the maintenance of specialist parts for automobiles, ships and aircraft.
“Additionally, a new contract printing service using these printers will help the adoption of AM by offering product design consultation, prototyping and general advice about the application of 3-D metal printing.
“In recent years, the growing need to reduce CO
2 emissions in the metal-working manufacturing industry has stimulated an increase in demand for more efficient metal-working methods that reduce energy consumption and conserve finite natural resources. In particular, demand is expected to grow for metal 3-D printers, which create objects from 3-D shape data.
“This has the advantages of significantly shortening the conventional manufacturing process, reducing waste materials in the manufacturing process, and improving design flexibility by making it easier to integrate multiple parts and reduce weight; and unlike 3-D printers that use powder-based feedstock, our AZ600 wire-laser metal 3-D printers have no issues with material management, workability or safety.”