Volkmann Conveyor Streamlines Metal Powder Flow to EOS 3D Printers!

Volkmann USA, in collaboration with EOS GmbH and Volkmann GmbH, has introduced the EOS Edition vLoader 250, an innovative solution designed to automate the flow of metal powders to EOS M 400 series 3D printers. This new system aims to optimize powder handling in additive manufacturing (AM), enhancing production efficiency while ensuring consistent, high-quality results.

The EOS Edition vLoader 250 is a pneumatic vacuum conveyor engineered to automatically transfer metal powders from storage directly to the printer’s supply hopper. The process eliminates the need for manual powder handling, ensuring a continuous and seamless flow of material to one or more printers. This automation offers significant advantages, such as unattended operation and the ability to run 24/7, leading to increased productivity and operational efficiency in industrial 3D printing environments.

The system works by using vacuum conveyors that transport the powder through piping or hoses before gently discharging it into the printer. The system’s gentle material handling minimizes the risk of powder degradation, which is essential for maintaining the consistency and quality of the metal powder used in metal additive manufacturing (AM).

One of the key features of the EOS Edition vLoader 250 is its easy integration with EOS’s M 400 series metal additive manufacturing systems. Designed to work within a sealed, closed-loop system, the vLoader 250 can be incorporated as part of a comprehensive central metal powder management system. This integration not only automates powder transfer but also helps manufacturers manage their powder usage more efficiently, reducing waste and ensuring that the material is handled in a controlled, contamination-free environment.

While the EOS Edition vLoader 250 is optimized for EOS M 400 series systems, Volkmann USA also offers standard vLoader systems that can be adapted for use with a variety of 3D printers from different manufacturers. This flexibility makes the vLoader a highly versatile solution for additive manufacturers across various industries. In addition to the vLoader, Volkmann provides companion equipment designed to handle vacuum drying, depowdering, storing, sieving, and reusing metal powders. This range of solutions ensures that manufacturers have a complete system for managing metal powders efficiently throughout their AM processes.

The introduction of the vLoader series in additive manufacturing is a significant step toward streamlining metal powder handling in 3D printing. Here are several key benefits:

1. Reduced Manual Labor: By eliminating manual powder transfer, the vLoader 250 minimizes human intervention, leading to a safer and more efficient operation.
2. Continuous Production: The system ensures a constant flow of metal powder, allowing printers to run continuously without the need for manual reloading or adjustments.
3. Improved Powder Quality: The gentle handling of the metal powder during transfer helps maintain the powder’s integrity, which is critical for ensuring consistent part quality in AM.
4. Operational Efficiency: The automated system contributes to 24/7 production, reducing downtime and increasing overall throughput in manufacturing operations.
5. Versatility: With customization options available for various AM processes, the vLoader can be tailored to fit the specific needs of different 3D printing setups, making it a valuable addition for both new and existing manufacturing operations.

The EOS Edition vLoader 250 represents a significant leap forward in the automation of powder handling in metal 3D printing. Its ease of use, integration capabilities, and flexibility position it as a crucial tool for manufacturers looking to enhance the efficiency and scalability of their additive manufacturing operations. By ensuring a continuous supply of metal powders, Volkmann USA’s new conveyor system helps businesses move closer to realizing the full potential of additive manufacturing—reliable, high-volume production with minimal manual effort.

Volkmann USA’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for powder handling in 3D printing is evidenced by their complete range of customized equipment, designed to meet the demands of the most challenging AM processes. Whether for EOS machines or other 3D printing platforms, Volkmann is helping to optimize metal powder handling, making it easier for manufacturers to meet the growing demand for precision, speed, and innovation in additive manufacturing.