California-based Additive Plus has expanded its offerings by introducing the AO Metal line of 3D printers, aiming to make laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology more affordable. The AO 3D printer family includes the A30, A50, and A100 models, with the A30 being the most compact and budget-friendly at $59,000, significantly lower than the typical cost of similar platforms.
The company’s CEO, Ashkhen Ovsepyan, emphasized the importance of reducing the barrier to entry for metal 3D printing, particularly for educational institutions, research labs, and small manufacturers. The AO Metal printers are designed to provide users with control over critical process parameters, enabling customization and flexibility in handling various metal powders, including complex materials like copper, gold, and high-entropy alloys.
Featuring an open architecture, the AO 3D printers offer users the freedom to adjust laser power, scanning strategies, and thermal management settings. The machines are equipped with a unique laser configuration that includes both infrared and blue laser options, enhancing the versatility of the systems for processing a wide range of materials.
Within the AO Metal lineup, the A30 is a compact system with a 200 W fiber laser, upgradable to a 300 W laser, and a build envelope of Ø30 x 60 mm. Priced at $59,000, this model is ideal for research and development applications, material exploration, and prototype production. The A50, on the other hand, offers a larger build volume of Ø50 x 100 mm, a 300 W fiber laser (upgradeable to 500 W or 1000 W), and a temperature variation system enabling the processing of hard-melting alloys. The A50 starts at $89,000 and can be upgraded to incorporate a multi-laser setup for enhanced precision and surface quality.
At the recent RAPID + TCT event, Additive Plus showcased the capabilities of the AO LPBF 3D printers through a comprehensive lab-to-part workflow demonstration. The company’s commitment to democratizing metal 3D printing technology aligns with the growing demand for accessible and cost-effective additive manufacturing solutions across various industries.
The launch of the AO 3D printer family signifies a strategic move by Additive Plus to cater to the evolving needs of the AM market, where affordability, performance, and versatility are key factors driving adoption. By offering competitive pricing and advanced features, the company aims to empower researchers, educators, and innovators to leverage metal 3D printing technology for their projects without the financial constraints typically associated with such high-tech equipment.
As the additive manufacturing sector continues to evolve and diversify, the introduction of affordable LPBF 3D printers like the AO Metal series by Additive Plus reflects a broader trend towards democratizing advanced manufacturing technologies. By making metal 3D printing more accessible and cost-effective, companies like Additive Plus are poised to expand the reach of AM applications and accelerate innovation in various industries.