Renishaw's additive manufacturing (metal 3D printing) technology is a digitally driven process that uses a ytterbium fibre laser to fuse fine metallic powders in to 3D objects, direct from 3D CAD data. The metallic powder is distributed evenly across the build plate in layer thicknesses ranging from 20 to 100 microns forming the 2D cross section. The layer of powder is then fused using the laser in a tightly controlled atmosphere. The process is repeated, building up parts of complex geometries, layer by layer.
“Since the mid-1990s the additive manufacturing laboratories at Cardiff School of Engineering have had a fantastic track record of additive manufacturing R&D in metal sintering, in resins, and in polymers,” said Rossi Setchi, the professor responsible for high value manufacturing at the University. “Our additive manufacturing labs incorporate a wide range of 3D printing technologies and the ability to produce macro and micro components – we're very excited to be able to add laser melting to this mix for the first time.
“This equipment combined with our pioneering expertise will advance R&D in the additive manufacturing field as well as enabling research and development in a very wide range fields from advanced manufacturing through healthcare to energy.”
