Over the last few years, manufacturers and end users have begun to realise that ‘one-stop’ benefits of additive manufacturing (AM) over other powder and conventional metal forming techniques are more apparent than real – with most 3D printed metal parts requiring a range of post-processing, including hot isostatic pressing (HIP), polishing and burring. One of the culprits is the need to remove the sacrificial supports that form part of the initial printed part to ensure a successful build. They can also increase build time and consume more materials. Now Velo 3D is an AM company founded by Israeli electrical engineer and physicist Benny Buller in 2014, says that it has developed a 3D printing process that enables manufacturers to design and print complex geometries below 45 degrees – previously considered impossible with existing AM systems – and as a result, reduce the need for supports. This could also allow engineers to create and manufacture designs for a wider range of new products and parts.
I spoke to Stefan Zschiegner, Velo3D’s chief product & marketing officer about the company and the technology it offers.
This article appeared in the November–December 2018 issue of Metal Powder Report.
