AMCM unveils M 8K with AirSword Gas Flow Technology
Designed to overcome airflow challenges in large-scale Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF)
AMCM, a company offering customized AM solutions based on EOS technology, has introduced the M 8K with its new AirSword Gas Flow Technology, designed to overcome airflow challenges in large-scale Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). LPBF is known for precision but struggles with build sizes beyond 1m x 1m due to gas flow issues. While alternatives like Directed Laser Deposition (DLD) can handle larger parts, they often compromise detail and require more post-processing.
Traditional gas flow systems in big chambers risk turbulence, uneven distribution, and poor soot removal. Effective flow is essential to eliminate spatter, keep an inert environment, and maintain consistent quality. The AirSword addresses this by combining fixed scanner speed and precision with a redesigned flow system.
The AirSword creates a dynamic, multi-layered flow across the build area, pushing smoke and soot toward the exhaust. At its core is a central gas-emitting device splitting flow into two opposing streams. This prevents smoke from crossing into laser paths – eliminating laser-smoke interaction and ensuring stable conditions. The design also clears optics and cover glasses, preventing soot buildup during long jobs.
The streamlined architecture reduces maintenance downtime and enhances productivity. “We designed the AirSword concept using extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to optimize flow patterns for large LPBF chambers. The device itself is manufactured on our M 4K system, leveraging LPBF’s design freedom to create a highly efficient, custom-fit gas flow solution,” said Georg Fey, Team Manager of Applications and Innovation at AMCM.
The M 8K features eight 1 kW lasers, a 0.7 m² powder bed, and an 800 x 800 x 1200 mm³ build volume, handling up to 5 tons of powder. AMCM’s roadmap includes the M 10K with a 1000 x 1000 mm² build area.
“AirSword complements this by maintaining a uniform protective gas atmosphere across the M 8K’s and M 10K’s expansive powder beds, safely dissipating fumes to avoid quality loss over long print times. Integrated with advanced process control technologies like SmartFusion and EOSTATE Exposure OT, AirSword enhances in-process quality assurance,” said Martin Bullemer, Managing Director of AMCM.
“We firmly believe that we should stick with a fixed scanner approach combined with optimized airflow for as long as possible, as the advantages in terms of build speed and part quality are unbeatable… With AirSword’s straightforward approach, we avoid these pitfalls,” said Felix Bauer, Head of Sales at AMCM.
