RenAM 500 The metal laser powder bed fusion 3D printers in this Renishaw series have a range of end uses that include producing molds with conformal cooling channels. The 500S has one high-powered laser, while the 500Q has four; in both cases, each laser is able to access the whole powder bed simultaneously.
What’s new? The RenAM 500 Ultra, which debuted at Formnext 2023 featuring faster printing. Renishaw says its TEMPUS technology, which is included with the RenAM 500 Ultra, uses new scanning algorithms to maximize part build efficiency by allowing the laser to fire while the powder recoater is in motion.
Benefits Faster, more economical part builds. With the Tempus technology, users get up to an additional 9 seconds of productive build time for every layer printed, cutting build times by up to 50 percent compared with traditional powder bed systems without affecting part quality. The printer comes standard with Renishaw’s process-monitoring hardware and software, which allows it to collect process data from every build. The printer’s build chamber vacuum system greatly reduces the in-chamber oxygen content, the amount of time it takes to produce an inert atmosphere inside the chamber and the volume of argon gas used for every build.
Renishaw PLC, West Dundee, Ill., 847-286-9953, www.renishaw.com
Vital Statistics
Machine size |
4 feet long by 7.1 feet wide by 6.9 feet high |
Build volume |
9.8 inches by 9.8 inches by 13.7 inches |
Available metals |
Stainless steel, tool steels, aluminum alloys, nickel-based alloys, titanium alloys |
David Tillett | Associate Editor
Associate Editor David Tillett writes and edits for Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing, Plastics Recycling and The Journal of Blow Molding. He covers new products, industry news, patents and consumer and business equipment. He has more than 20 years of experience in daily newspaper, online and magazine journalism.