VAC-U-MAX Introduces AM-MPRS Metal Powder Recovery System for AM
Industrial vacuum cleaner experts VAC-U-MAX are introducing a new Metal Powder Recovery System (AM-MPRS) for Additive Manufacturing / 3D Printing applications, that now offers conveying, screening, recovering and reuse of metal powders including Inconel, Stainless Steel, Haynes 282, and Cobalt Chrome. The VAC-U-MAX AM-MPRS increases productivity of Additive Manufacturing / 3D Printing Machines by extracting metal powders from the printing bed via vacuum, and then sieving the metal powder for future use – cutting metal powder recovery time by 85%.
The new AM-MPRS is designed for ease-of-use, conveying metal powders in a closed system, eliminating operator exposure to metal dusts, and maximizing plant and personnel safety.
The VAC-U-MAX AM-MPRS utilizes vacuum, with system extracting the metal powder, conveying it to a vacuum receiver, and then discharging the metal powder into a sieve. The sieve discharges the metal powder into a pail, drum or IBC, in a contained and inert environment. System is NFPA 484 compliant for handling metal powders and reduces risk of cross-contamination. AM-MPRS allows full metal powder recovery and quick dismantle without tools. The ergonomic low-profile design and mobile frame allows easy rolling with lockable casters.
AM-MPRS includes pick-up hand tool and static-conductive hose with smooth bore. Hoses for non-aerospace applications are available in PVC construction, both FDA and USDA approved. Aerospace applications are offered with flexible stainless-steel hose with smooth bore construction. AM-MPRS offers inert gas-purge fittings and optional gas-purge manifold supplied at customers request. Additional features include HEPA Filter canister with filter, and high-output suspended vibratory sieving machine with US230 mesh, ultrasonic de-blinding kit, and VAC-U-MAX Vacuum Receiver.
The VAC-U-MAX 316L Stainless-Steel Vacuum Receiver Package offers 36 square feet of filter area and counter-weighted discharge valve. Vacuum Generator includes VAC-U-MAX’s Single Venturi Power Unit. Compressed-air is driven by a vacuum generator with ½” NPT high-pressure air connection. System requires 35CFM @ 60PSI for operation, with variable orifice assembly for adjustment of vacuum levels. A NEMA 4, UL-Certified VAC-U-MAX Control Panel offers Micro-PLC for Vacuum Conveying functions, starter for sieve, grounding and bonding monitor, and face-mount ultrasonic controls.
