Meltio 3D printing unlocks the innovation potential of MTC
The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has opened up new R&D potential for UK-based additive manufacturing by investing in a Meltio M450 3D printer.
The machine, which uses groundbreaking laser direct-energy deposition (DED), can process wire or powder. It also allows for quick material changes, allowing the creation of parts that are printed in two or more different materials. Combined with the MTC’s deep end-to-end knowledge and expertise in additive manufacturing (AM) and material science, the organisation’s new acquisition will enable innovative remanufacture and repair processes, in a variety of materials, for a range of industries.
The machine can be used outside dedicated manufacturing facilities. While printing with powder is only possible in industrial environments that are specialised, it’s ability to process wire allows the machine to be used anywhere. This could revolutionise repairs, as the Meltio printer, a small, mobile device, can be used to create spare parts, repair breakages, or repair wear on-site.
Ross Trepleton, associate director for component manufacturing at The MTC, said: “There is a lack of support in the UK for the adoption and validation of parts produced with new AM technologies like DED, despite a good level of demand from industry seeking to rapidly develop products and speed up their route to market.
“This acquisition combined with our unique experience in design for AM, process optimisation, quality control, materials science, as well as our industry partnerships, will enable us to fill this gap and deliver complex projects utilising the benefits of DED. In turn, companies who work with us can significantly reduce the risk associated with the adoption of new technologies by prototyping and validating products before investing in costly capital equipment.”
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