DPS Automated Depowdering Station

AUTOMATED DEPOWDERING STATION - DPS

DPS Metal 1 - automatic unpacking and depowdering of the build job

Unpack the build job from the build frame and completely de-powder both, all in one step. The VOLKMANN DPS Metal 1 makes this possible automatically, and in a single work operation, without the requirement for an operator to perform any intermediate manual cleaning steps. The cleaning cycle is so efficient that secondary cleaning is typically unnecessary.

VOLKMANN DPS internal view showing cleaning chamber and powder collection

During the cleaning cycle, the metal powder is collected in an internal container for subsequent reprocessing.

How the DPS Metal 1 works

The build frame is removed from the 3D printer and loaded into the DPS Metal 1– there is no need to preclean the build chamber as is necessary when using depowdering solutions from other suppliers. Loading is typically done manually by lift truck, but automated transport and loading options such as AGVs or other devices can be incorporated into the system.

The entire cleaning process takes place within a closed chamber under atmospheric conditions, or optionally, under inert gas.

During the cleaning cycle, the build chamber is inverted and cleaning nozzles use a combination of air jets (compressed air or inert gas) and vibration to remove excess powder from the parts. This not only loosens the excess metal powder from the deepest crevices of the built component, but also removes the powder adhering to the build frame and eliminates bridging.

Total cleaning cycle time varies but is generally between 10-30 minutes depending on build chamber size and printed parts geometry.

The DPS Metal 1 can be adapted to work with build chamber types (round, rectangular) and sizes from most established 3D printer manufacturers. The printer type and build chamber size need to be specified at time of inquiry.