Introducing Meltio Space: Streamlining Metal 3D Printing
Metal 3D printing has revolutionized the manufacturing industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation. Meltio, a leading developer of metal 3D printers, has recently unveiled two groundbreaking advancements: the Meltio Robot Cell and Meltio Space software. These innovations cater to the diverse needs of industries employing industrial robotic arms, providing a safer and more efficient method for printing and repairing metal parts.
The Meltio Engine Robot Integration has gained significant traction worldwide, as industries witness a surge in demand for metal part printing and repair. With a focus on materials such as stainless steels, titanium, nickel alloys, Inconel, and tool steels, Meltio aims to expand its wire-laser metal 3D printing portfolio by introducing new materials. To meet this industrial need, Meltio has introduced the Meltio Space toolpath generator software, designed to streamline the adoption of its metal 3D printing solutions.
Meltio Space offers a user-friendly interface with a built-in robot library and postprocessors for popular robotic brands, including ABB, Kuka, FANUC, and Yaskawa. This makes it easier for users to adopt the technology without requiring expertise in robotics or programming. The software supports various toolpaths, such as planar, nonplanar, and variable extrusion, and provides kinematics simulation, collision checks, and cell configuration. This allows users to leverage advanced robotic capabilities and overcome the limitations of traditional 3-axis systems.
One of the key features of Meltio Space is its virtual model of real robot movement, which ensures accurate and precise 3D printing by simulating the kinematics of the robot and performing collision checks with the part being printed. This minimizes the risk of errors or damage during the additive manufacturing process. Additionally, the software provides presets with recommended material profiles and 3D printing parameters, offering a fully tailored customer experience and reducing the learning curve for users. Continuous updates are also provided to keep users up to date with industry advancements.
Meltio Space enhances the capabilities of the Meltio Engine by optimizing print profiles for diverse materials and applications. Affordability, advanced capabilities, and a user-friendly interface are key factors of Meltio Space, maximizing both investment and project outcomes. The software is available through an annual subscription model with a competitive price based on its capabilities. Meltio is bundling a one-year free license with every Meltio Engine, allowing users to start manufacturing metal parts from day one.
The Meltio Robot Cell, the second offering from Meltio, is a turn-key solution designed to optimize the performance of robotic arms transformed into metal 3D printing systems. This system includes a standard ABB robotic arm, prioritizing safety, reliability, and precision. Additionally, the Meltio Robot Cell is adaptable to other robotic arm brands, offering an affordable metal 3D printing solution for industrial applications.
The Meltio Space software and Meltio Robot Cell have been met with great enthusiasm, with existing Meltio Engine Robot users praising the usability of the platform. Meltio is working with some users to publish case studies showcasing the software’s capabilities and its impact on their manufacturing processes.
In conclusion, Meltio’s advancements in metal 3D printing are revolutionizing the industry, offering streamlined and efficient solutions for printing and repairing metal parts. With the Meltio Space software and Meltio Robot Cell, industries can benefit from safer and more precise 3D printing, unlocking new possibilities for innovation and manufacturing excellence.
The Meltio Robot Cell, developed by Meltio, is a versatile solution for various industrial applications. It is equipped with a self-supporting platform that houses the robotic arm, positioner, laser-safe enclosure, Meltio Engine, Meltio Space, and accessories. This plug-and-play system offers a single electrical power supply and inert gas supply, making it easy to integrate into controlled indoor environments while ensuring optimal operation.
Meltio envisions the Robot Cell as a foundational model for integrating 3D printed parts into industrial production systems. The company emphasizes the adaptability of this system to meet diverse industry needs. Giorgio Olivieri, the Applications Engineering Manager at Meltio, states, “In Meltio, we believe that a significant percentage of the current metal manufacturing market can be addressed by our wire-laser DED process. We have strong evidence of a growing interest within a wide range of industries, and we are confident that the adoption rate will keep growing.”
One of the advantages of the Meltio wire-laser DED process is the use of commodity welding wire as feedstock, which offers significant cost savings compared to alternatives. Additionally, this process allows for the manufacturing of complex parts without the need for high initial investment in tooling, minimizing labor costs and reducing supply chain delays. It is particularly advantageous for the small-scale manufacturing of pieces designed for casting, the replacement of complex thin metal sheet components, and thin wall structures that are traditionally manually assembled and welded.
The Meltio Robot Cell also provides the industrial customer with a working protocol. It is competitively priced at below $300,000 ex-works, making it an attractive option compared to existing offerings in the market. Furthermore, it is compatible with open hardware platforms, allowing Meltio to integrate its metal 3D printing head on any brand of robotic arms. Alejandro Nieto concludes, “This cell has the possibility to be delivered with other robot brands on the market to be more responsive to customers in terms of availability and technical capability.”
As the additive manufacturing sector continues to evolve, it is important to consider the future of 3D printing for the next ten years. Engineering challenges will need to be tackled to further advance the industry. To stay updated with the latest 3D printing news, subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow them on social media platforms. They also offer a Youtube channel featuring discussions, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.
If you are interested in a career in the additive manufacturing industry, visit 3D Printing Jobs for a selection of roles in the field. The featured image showcases robot 3D printers represented in the Meltio Space software, highlighting the capabilities of the Meltio Robot Cell. Cast your vote now for the 3D Printing Industry Awards 2023!
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