A closer look at Makino’s new AML900 metal 3D printer
And the company's Additive Manufacturing Service Bureau
Makino, a global leader in CNC machining solutions, has demonstrated its commitment to additive manufacturing innovation by introducing the AML900 machine and its Additive Manufacturing (AM) Service Bureau. These advancements aim to revolutionize metal additive manufacturing by addressing the gap between prototyping and full-scale production, enabling manufacturers to unlock new levels of efficiency and scalability.
Key features of Makino’s AML900
The AML900 builds on its predecessor, the AML500, with significant advancements. It offers automated in-process calibration and enhanced process monitoring to ensure precision and scalability, making it ideal for large-scale production. The machine’s inert chamber, paired with an innovative antechamber design, enables efficient handling of reactive materials while minimizing purging downtime, significantly boosting productivity.
One of the most relevant features of the AML900 is its High-Speed Laser Metal Deposition (HS-LMD) technology. This advancement achieves build rates up to five times faster than traditional LMD, thanks to a 5-axis high-speed drive system that reduces production time without compromising part quality. Additionally, the AML900 aligns with sustainability goals by achieving a powder utilization rate of up to 95% and applying thin-layer coatings as small as 40 µm, reducing material waste and energy consumption.
The AML900 offers significant upgrades over the AML500. While the AML500 and the AML900 support HS-LMD, which is five times faster than standard LMD systems, and enhanced process monitoring systems, the AML900 offers automated in-process calibration, making it even more suitable for advanced automated workflows. In addition, the AML900’s inert chamber and innovative antechamber design further facilitate the efficient processing of reactive materials, boosting operational productivity by minimizing purging downtime.
AML500 vs. AML900
| Feature | AML500 | AML900 |
|---|---|---|
| Build Speed | HS-LMD | HS-LMD |
| Chamber Design | Standard | Inert and antechamber design |
| Process Monitoring | Dynamic controls | Dynamic controls |
| Calibration | Standard | Automated in process |
Makino’s AM Service Bureau
Recognizing that many manufacturers struggle to implement additive manufacturing due to a lack of technical expertise, Makino’s AM Service Bureau provides comprehensive support. This includes material testing, process optimization, prototyping, and integration assistance to help businesses transition seamlessly from concept to production. Makino’s service bureau also offers customized automation solutions, integrating additive and subtractive manufacturing for streamlined operations and improved efficiency.
Makino’s focus on LMD technology brings versatility to the manufacturing process. Unlike other additive manufacturing technologies that primarily focus on part printing, LMD offers a range of applications. It enables the construction of complex components, the repair of damaged parts with minimal distortion, and the application of protective coatings with high precision and efficiency.
In addition, the company is very much focused on automating the Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) process, which is seen as crucial to meeting the evolving demands of advanced manufacturing. With increasing complexity in component design, automation streamlines production workflows, ensuring consistent quality while reducing production time and costs. Makino’s automation systems can be customized to integrate advanced sensing and monitoring technologies, facilitating real-time adjustments for optimal performance. In a competitive market, automation is a strategic imperative to stay ahead, delivering reliable, high-quality products efficiently.
Real-world applications
The AML900 extends the capabilities of its predecessor, the AML500, which has already shown success in applications like multi-material manufacturing. For example, Makino has developed multi-material sprue spreaders, which improve cooling efficiency during die casting. Similarly, HS-LMD has proven effective in repairing gear teeth with minimal heat distortion, ensuring both durability and precision. The machine is also making strides in providing sustainable coating solutions, offering enhanced durability and lower environmental impact compared to traditional methods.
Makino’s additive manufacturing solutions contribute to sustainability in various ways. The AML900 minimizes waste and energy consumption through efficient material utilization and energy-efficient processes. It also extends the lifecycle of components by enabling effective repair techniques. These solutions empower manufacturers to align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives while achieving tangible operational advantages.
Makino envisions a future where subtractive and additive manufacturing coexist seamlessly. With its dedicated AM facilities in Singapore and Germany and a strong focus on research and development, the company is well-positioned to lead the global adoption of additive manufacturing technologies. By offering innovative solutions like the AML900 and comprehensive support through its AM Service Bureau, Makino is now set to become a key player in a new manufacturing era.
