Australia is not only a regional aviation hub but also a destination for advanced aerospace research and development. The growth of metal 3D printing technology, particularly with the SLM 280 printer, is providing the Australian aerospace industry with new competitive advantages, enhancing production capacity and driving innovation in the aerospace sector.
SLM 280 Metal 3D Printing Technology
The Nikon SLM 280 metal 3D printer has recently been deployed at CSIRO's Lab22 facility in Melbourne, marking the first time this advanced technology has been available in Australia.
Known for its ability to print multiple metals side-by-side in a continuous process, the SLM 280 is an ideal choice for the aerospace industry, where the demand for lightweight and high-performance materials is rapidly increasing.
CSIRO's lab in Melbourne (Photo credit: CSIRO)
Benefits of Metal 3D Printing in Aerospace
Metal 3D printing not only optimizes design but also enables the integration of complex components, such as heat exchangers with integrated corrosion-resistant layers, reducing weight and production costs while improving overall performance.
The flexibility of this technology opens up unprecedented design opportunities, allowing engineers to make strategic decisions on weight while ensuring the structural integrity of the product.
31% reduction in gooseneck weight when using SLM 280 printer
Read more: HOW HAS METAL 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY IMPROVED AIRCRAFT ACTUATION BRACKET?
Exploring the Superior Potential of the SLM 280 Metal 3D Printer
With the development of the SLM 280 metal 3D printer, the aerospace industry can further advance the application of superalloys that can withstand the extreme speeds and temperatures encountered in hypersonic flight.
Beyond aerospace, this technology also has vast potential applications in satellite assembly, radiation shielding, and enhancing the performance of ground vehicles such as Formula 1 race cars.
Read more: APPLICATIONS OF 3D METAL PRINTING IN TOP 4 INDUSTRIES
SLM 280: Internationally Recognized Technology
The SLM 280 metal 3D printer has gained international recognition for its capabilities in producing complex aerospace components. Collaborative projects with leading companies like CellCore GmbH, ASCO, and Finland's VTT Technical Research Centre have demonstrated the effectiveness of this technology. Achievements such as creating monolithic thrust chambers for rocket propulsion and hydraulic valve blocks with significant size and weight reductions have solidified the SLM 280's position in the aerospace industry.
Read more: DESIGN FOR 3D METAL PRINTING: 2 SUCCESSFUL AND COST-SAVING CASE STUDIES
Monolithic rocket ejection chamber 3D printed by SLM 280 machine
The Future of Aerospace with Metal 3D Printing Technology
The advent of metal 3D printing, especially with SLM 280 technology, is ushering in a new era for the aerospace industry. This is not just an advancement in production but a true revolution, taking the industry to new heights with improvements in performance, cost, and product design.
Metal 3D printing technology is and will continue to be a key driver in the growth of the aerospace industry, particularly with the applications of the SLM 280. Aerospace companies in Australia and around the world will have more opportunities to optimize production, reduce costs, and improve product performance, bringing significant benefits to this industry.
Reference: CSIRO's First Multi-Metal 3D Printer to Boost Aerospace in Australia - 3Dnatives
Specifications and Key Features of the SLM 280 Metal 3D Printer
The SLM 280 is a third-generation metal 3D printer developed by SLM Solutions, featuring advanced capabilities tailored to meet the demands of modern industrial production.
Build Envelope (L x W x H) | 125 x 125 x 125 mm |
3D Optics Configuration | Single (1x400W) IPG fiber laser |
Build Rate | Up to 25 cm3/h |
Variable Layer Thickness | 20µm - 75 µm, 1 µm increments |
Minimum Feature Size | 140 µm |
Beam Focus Diameter | 70 - 100 µm |
Maximum Scan Speed | 10m/s |
Average Inert Gas Consumption in Process | 0.6 l/min (Argon) |
Average Inert Gas Consumption Purging | 70 l/min (Argon) |
Compressed Air Requirement | ISO 8573-1:2010 [1:4:1] 7 bar |
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 1400 x 900 x 2460 mm |
Equipped with multiple lasers, the SLM 280 enhances printing productivity while ensuring consistent product quality. One of its standout features is a build volume that is 25% larger than comparable machines, allowing for the production of larger parts without sacrificing performance.
With these features, the SLM 280 is not only a powerful metal 3D printing solution but also a crucial tool for businesses looking to boost productivity and efficiency in aerospace and various other industries.
Vinnotek is the official distributor of Nikon SLM Solutions in Vietnam. We offer a range of metal 3D printers tailored to the specific needs and requirements of businesses across different sectors.
To explore cutting-edge metal 3D printing solutions with the SLM 280 and elevate your production capabilities, contact Vinnotek today!
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