At Wagner Machine, we’re proud to offer 3D metal printing services in addition to our full range of CNC machining capabilities right here onsite at our machine shop in Illinois.
Previously on this blog, we explored the advantages of 3D metal printing and provided expert insight on how to determine which capability is right for your part. We help our customers make this determination based on factors like part design, functionality, and requirements.
If 3D metal printing is the ideal manufacturing method for your part, there may be opportunities to optimize your design for manufacturability (DFM) to reduce post processing. Today, we’ll review several DFM tips for 3D metal printing at Wagner Machine—but first, a little bit about our 3D metal printing partner.
Not all 3D metal printing solutions are created equal. We’ve partnered with VELO3D because their machines offer the most advanced capabilities available in metal additive manufacturing, with process control, traceability, and build monitoring that is second to none. Their SupportFree™ Process is a cut above other laser powder bed fusion (LBPF) solutions.
Nearly all 3D metal printed parts require support structures, and removing these structures from complex parts is a difficult task that can add cost and compromise quality.
Unlike other LBPF solutions, the VELO3D SupportFree™ Process allows us to print even the most complex parts without requiring supports, which unlocks maximum part performance.
Support-free metal printing is ideal for parts with exceptionally complex internal geometries. These parts often control the flow of fluids or the transfer of heat. If you’re interested in support- 3D metal printing at Wagner Machine, keep these considerations in mind when designing your part:
Want to see if 3D metal printing is the right fit for your part? Let’s have a conversation! Send us your model and we’ll steer you in the right direction.