Formen aus Stahl, Bauteile aus Titan und Stahl

Abstract

With the 'CAD to Metal®' method an electronic beam is used worldwide for the first time by the Arcam Technology. With this method homogeneous steel components and forms can be melted from a metallic powder in shortest time. The production of prototypes in the target material, which is increasingly demanded, is made possible for the first time by the EBM procedure for steel and titanium materials. The Arcam method converts CAD data models directly into homogeneous metal models. With the implementation of near net-shaped cooling ducts it is now possible to manufacture tools in high-alloyed steel by rapid prototyping. Tools which are manufactured by this method can reduce the cycle time for the process of injection molding and die casting by 30%. without any subsequent treatment the strength is approx. 50 Rockwell. All desired shaping can be produced immediately in steel and, since recently, also in titanium. It is of special significance that near net-shaped cooling is integrated in any desired complexity. The Arcam technology represents the fastest production possibility of functional prototypes, which have the same parameters both in firmness and stability of temperature as conventional manufactured construction units. Tool steel (DIN 1,2344) alloyed steel and titanium (Ti6A14V) are available. For melting the metallic powders an electron beam is used by the EBM technology. Steel is for example laid in layers with a temperature of 1700 °C. There is no wear like it is known from the laser technology. With this technology investments for new lasers after 3000-4000 operation hours are not necessary. The Arcam technology is protected by patent law in 24 countries. Arcam is a Swedish enterprise, located in Moelndal near Goeteborg.