Moving 3D printing into the production environment

XYZ Machines Tools is familiar to many for its extensive range of metalcutting machine tools, so the move into 3D printing, as an official reseller of HP’s Multi Jet Fusion Technology, took many by surprise. However, the move is viewed as logical step by the Burlescombe, Devon-based company, with additive capabilities of 3D printing offering a complimentary process to its existing metal removal machine tools.

“We see 3D printing as a perfect opportunity to enhance the productivity and capabilities of our existing customers, while opening up new opportunities with businesses that may not have looked at XYZ Machine Tools in the past,” says Nigel Atherton, Managing Director, XYZ Machine Tools. “The Multi Jet Fusion technology takes 3D printing to new levels and we were astounded at the speed of the process, which make it a truly production orientated proposition, moving it away from purely prototype and R&D type applications.”

At the TCT Show (stand N47) XYZ Machine Tools will have on display the HP Jet Fusion 3D 4210 Printing solution along with its associated processing and fast cooling station. This combination can print at up to 4500 cm3 per hour, with 100 per cent of any excess material being recycled and re-useable. The machine can be configured for continuous production printing, eliminating in many cases the costs associated with injection mould tools. Apart from the processing speed, another attraction of the HP Multi Jet Fusion technology was its ease of use. The HP Jet Fusion 3D printing solutions are user-friendly and streamline workflow, from developing component build and automatic packing of the print chamber, which measures 380 mm by 284 mm by 380 mm, to maximise production prior to printing. Pre-packed printing materials are easily installed and mixing ratios are automatically selected, all of which is fully enclosed to maintain a clean working environment. At the end of the printing process excess material is removed, and collected to be recycled, while still fully enclosed in the unit.

Visitors to stand N47 at the TCT show can see the HP Multi Jet Fusion printer in action. See for yourself the productivity benefits that it can bring and the opportunities that it can open up.

More from XYZ Machine Tools