3D Printing with Xact Metal: Affordable Metal Additive Manufacturing

Metal 3D printing is a rapidly growing technology transforming how companies produce parts and prototypes. The origins of metal 3D printing can be traced back to the mid-1990s with the launch of the EOSINT M250.

Today, the metal additive manufacturing industry is experiencing tremendous growth, with the global market expected to reach 5.3 billion by 2025 - up from 2.0 billion in 2020 (source: PRNewswire). This technology is revolutionizing various industries, including medical, aerospace, automotive, and general manufacturing, with its ability to push the boundaries of what is possible with advanced materials, complex geometries, and weight reduction in manufactured parts. 

In particular, around 60% of aerospace companies already use metal 3D printing to improve their manufacturing processes and produce high-quality parts. As the demand for metal 3D printing continues to grow, this technology will likely become increasingly important in the coming years. 

Metal 3D Printing Applications

• Tooling: 3D printing with metal allows companies to create custom tools that are tailored to their specific needs, can be used in harsh conditions, and can withstand the repeated stresses of heavy use. Producing these customized tools is faster and more cost-effective than other tool production processes, ultimately leading to shorter production times.
  
  
  

• Complex parts: Metal 3D printing is particularly useful for producing complex parts that would be difficult or impossible to create using traditional metal manufacturing methods. For example, aerospace companies can use metal 3D printing to produce fuel nozzles for aircraft engines, which require intricate internal geometries and must withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. Metal 3D printing allows these companies to create these parts more accurately and consistently than traditional methods.
  
  
  

• Weight reduction: Metal 3D printing can also be used to significantly reduce the weight of manufactured parts, which is essential in the aerospace and automotive industries where performance is a critical factor. By using metal 3D printing to produce lighter parts, companies can improve fuel efficiency and reduce the overall weight of their aircraft or vehicle, significantly reducing operating costs.
• Customization: Manufacturers use metal additive solutions to customize parts to meet specific requirements. For example, they can use metal 3D printing to produce customized spare parts on demand rather than maintaining a large inventory of parts that may not be used for long periods. This can save space, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
• Functional Prototyping: Metal 3D printing is also useful for prototyping and testing new designs. Manufacturers can use metal 3D printing to quickly and inexpensively produce functional prototypes of new parts and test their performance and durability before committing to mass production.
  
  
  

Why Should You Pay Attention to Metal 3D Printing Now?

For years, metal 3D printing technologies were out of reach for most companies due to their high cost and restrictive operating procedures. The machines required expensive facility modifications and specialized training to run them. The costs, training, and expertise meant only the largest manufacturers had access to this powerful technology. As a result, many companies were left with no choice but to order parts from manufacturers or utilize 3D printing services providers to produce them.

However, companies such as Xact Metal, have emerged to break these barriers, making it easier and more affordable for companies to get started with metal 3D printing. Xact Metal's technology combines Metal Powder-Bed Fusion, (also known as Selective Laser Melting or Direct Metal Laser Sintering) with their own innovative advances to create a new standard for pricing and performance within additive manufacturing.

Metal Powder-Bed Fusion is an additive manufacturing process using a laser to melt consecutive layers on a metal powder bed. The powder fuses into the finished dimensional part, incorporating complex internal and external geometries.

One of the key advantages of Xact Metal's technology is its affordability. Its 3D printers offer true industrial-grade capabilities at a more affordable price point than traditional metal 3D printing technologies. This makes it easier for companies to justify the cost of adopting metal 3D printing and integrating it into their manufacturing processes.

As metal 3D printing technology becomes more affordable and accessible to a wider range of companies, its adoption is increasing at a rapid pace. Many businesses are now bringing metal 3D printing in-house and are experiencing great results. Metal 3D printing is a valuable tool that can help companies stay ahead of the competition.

In addition to being more affordable, Xact Metal 3D printers are also easier to use than traditional metal 3D printing technologies.

Here are a few reasons for this:

• Simplified setup: Xact Metal's 3D printers offer an easy-to-use interface and intuitive controls that make it simple for operators to set up and start printing.
• Automated processes: Xact Metal's 3D printers feature automated processes that make it easier for operators to manage the printing process. For example, the printers are equipped with automatic bed leveling and material handling systems that help ensure that prints are consistent and high-quality.
• Minimal post-processing: Xact Metal's 3D printers produce parts with exceptional surface quality, which requires minimal post-processing. This helps to reduce the time and effort needed to prepare parts for use and get products to market faster.
• Expert support: Xact Metal and GoEngineer offer expert support to help operators get the most out of their 3D printers. 

Overall, it is clear that metal 3D printing has numerous features and benefits that make it a valuable technology for the manufacturing industry. With all of these advantages, it is no wonder that metal 3D printing is gaining popularity and attention from businesses around the world.

3D printing has the potential to revolutionize the way we manufacture parts. Its versatility and efficiency make it an appealing solution for a variety of industries, and as the adoption of the technology continues to grow, we can expect to see even more innovative applications in the future.

If you are interested in learning more about how Xact Metal 3D printers can benefit your business, we’d love to brainstorm with you. Our expertise in 3D printing and engineering means we can help you explore the possibilities and determine if metal 3D printing is the right fit for your needs. Contact Us. 

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