AM software firm Dyndrite has partnered with metal build plate supplier UPM Additive Solutions to develop “smart” build plates for laser metal 3D printing.
The smart build plates will record key data about their lifecycle and history, helping reduce the risk of powder levelling issues, internal fatigue, and plate warpage that can lead to lost time and costly build failures.
“UPM is excited to partner with Dyndrite and its metal users to unlock the keys to build plate life”, said Chris Prue, UPM Additive Solutions. “Through data, we can put knowledge in the hands of the user to raise throughput and reduce failures. Build plate usage data helps customers understand and manage their usage and demand for plates to keep costs low while keeping inventory available to reduce downtime. Through smart build plates and a reliable supply chain, we can collectively mature and grow the industry.”
UPM currently offers subscription-based services to track build plates from their initial manufacture to the customer and through their refurbishment. Each plate is serialised and maintains accessible quality inspection data. Smart Build Plate users will be able to view build data associated with each plate from the machine (preheat, laser power, powder melted, heat treatment, stress relief) along with other conditions that the build plate will be exposed to.
“For the AM production industry to scale we must develop new tools to enable it. By working with UPM and leveraging the power of machine data we can accelerate learning, improve predictability and grow,” said Harshil Goel, founder and CEO, Dyndrite. “Through insights of the data we allow users to make less risky decisions on their build plates to assure success.”
The UPM Smart Build Plate service will support all major metal 3D printer OEMs, including Aconity, EOS, Renishaw and SLM Solutions, and is expected to roll out in Q3 2023.