AMLABS project to work on L-PBF laser beam optimization
To increase productivity by leveraging Multi-Plan Light Conversion
The AMLABS project, a joint venture between Italy’s PRES-X and France’s Cailabs has been launched to work on laser beam shape optimization in order to increase productivity and material processability of the L-PBF process, leveraging Multi-Plan Light Conversion – MPLC technology
Part of the BEAMIT Group, PRES-X is an innovative company based in Rubiera (Reggio Emilia, Italy) working in post-processing for the additive manufacturing sector.
In PRES-X a number of cutting-edge technologies have been developed and industrialized to make AM more efficient, cheaper and environmentally sustainable, covering all necessary phases in a single plant through a fully automated digital approach.
Multi-Plan Light Conversion – MPLC was originally invented for multimode quantum optics, where lossless conversion of spatial modes is a key element. It is based on the succession of transverse phase profiles, similar to highly complex lenses, separated by a specific propagation distance. Multi-Plan Light Conversion – MPLC is a very low loss process, which enables the combination and shaping of multiple light beams. The passive nature of this technology means it can be integrated in systems where reliability is critical.
Beam shaping has already been proven to enable significant improvements in high-power laser-based processes such as Laser Beam Welding, Laser Cutting, Surface Texturing and Powder Bed Fusion. To optimize the process a beam shaper enabling a tailored shape compatible with the integration constraints has to be developed.
AMLABS aims to develop a «plug & play» solution integrated into pre-existent LPBF systems to benefit from laser beam shaping technology in LPBF processes. The final goal is to improve both metal AM productivity and the number of processable materials.
