Sugino Debuts System Capable of in-Process Finishing of AM Parts

The XtenDED from Sugino features a twin-head setup that combines the AMBIT laser processing head with the tool magazine of a CNC machine. The AMBIT head adds metal using powder-fed laser metal deposition (LMD), a form of directed energy deposition (DED), where a laser melts feedstock powder as it arrives to the surface of a workpiece. 

The XtenDED hybridized AM/CNC enables increased in-process finishing of additive manufacturing parts, higher deposition rates (thicker layers), better surface finish and improved productivity, according to Sugino.  XtenDED is less wasteful than machining alone and more productive and precise than 3D printing alone, the company claims. LMD is said to use less energy and is more controllable layer to layer and gives a smaller heat-affected zone (HAZ) versus plasma/wire AM systems.

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Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.