3D printing firm Additec has unveiled its new Hybrid Series multi-technology manufacturing platform that it believes will ‘reshape the industry’.

The precision 5-axis hybrid manufacturing platform leverages two powerful metal 3D printing technologies: Liquid Metal Jetting (LMJ) and High-Power Laser DED (LDED). The platform combines the capabilities of Additec’s Hybrid2 (integrating LMJ with CNC machining) and Hybrid3 (LDED) platforms to deliver enhanced precision, speed and material versatility for advanced manufacturing.

Getting technical

The hybrid series features an integrated 2-axis positioner rated for parts up to 100kh, enhancing the system’s capability to achieve precise 5-axis manufacturing.

LMJ, with its high-resolution capabilities, unlocks the potential for creating intricate and finely detailed components. Utilising cost-effective commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) welding wire, LMJ ensures complete material utilisation and exceptional detail. High-Power LDED, meanwhile, is renowned for its high deposition rate and speed, making it ideal for producing larger components or reducing lead times. Like LMJ, LDED employs COTS welding wire, ensuring cost efficiency and full material utilisation.

The Hybrid Series provides rapid head deployment for both LMJ and LDED technologies in the form of a fully integrated system, simplifying the transition between different manufacturing processes to enhance overall efficiency.

One particularly notable feature of the system is its high-temperature print bed assembly which makes use of Additec’s patented quick-release technology for LMJ parts to provide automatic part removal. This feature ensures seamless production and minimises downtime.

Multi-material

According to Additec, the Hybrid Series’ unique multi-material capability opens endless possibilities by integrating both LMJ and LDED heads within a single system. As a result, more complex components with varying materials and properties can be achieved.

The system’s subtractive process, primarily driven by CNC machining, ensures the desired surface finish and tight tolerances for parts manufactured using additive processes, while also meeting quality standards.