Home >> Latest News >> 3T RPD Ltd offer parts in Metal using DMLS

3T RPD Ltd offer parts in Metal using DMLS

3T RPD Ltd are already firmly established as market leaders in the field of Rapid Prototyping, with the UK's largest Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) capability based in Newbury, Berkshire. To further enhance their service offering, they are now supplying prototypes and production parts in metal using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS).

They have invested heavily in the necessary premises, machinery and equipment to enable them to deliver parts of the highest quality, with the best surface finish, within the shortest leadtimes possible. Increasing their already impressive purpose-built 13,000 sq. ft. facility by a further 6,500 sq. ft. and employing specialist personnel, they are reinforcing their commitment to provide an unparalleled service.

The latest addition to their team is Dr Bruno Le Razer, one of the world's leading authorities on the production of metal components using DMLS. With nine years experience in the field, the last two of which have been spent using the EOS M270 machine, he has pioneered a number of new production methods previously thought impossible to achieve.

Having just taken delivery of their second EOS M270, they can now boast one of the UK's largest DMLS facilities. Offering a choice of four materials for metal parts, they are opening up a vast array of opportunities for different applications within many industry sectors. They currently offer Stainless Steel (EOS SS 17-4), Cobalt Chrome (EOS CC MP1), Bronze (Direct Metal EOS DM20) and Maraging Steel 1.2709 (EOS MS1), with further materials becoming available in the near future.

With a machine build envelope of 250x250x215mm (including platform), many medium to small parts and inserts are able to be constructed in hours and days, versus days and weeks using other more conventional processes. Once started, the machine builds unattended, 24 hours a day. Parts and inserts that come out of the machine typically go through a series of 'post processing' steps including support removal, shot-peening and polishing, with 3T's team of specialist finishers ensuring every last detail is taken care of.

3T recognise that designers and manufacturers, particularly within the aerospace, automotive and medical environments, are increasingly seeking the fast, accurate production of durable, complex parts. DMLS is the cost-effective method of choice, producing otherwise 'impossible to make' end-use parts whilst negating the investment in time and money of conventional tooling.

DMLS is a revolutionary technology that produces metal components that are 99.99% dense, directly from a designer's 3D CAD data. The parts produced are comparable to a good investment cast part and the mechanical properties are comparable to those of a cast or machined component. The process is not restrictive in its application and the components produced can be used in place of almost any conventionally manufactured part, whether they would normally be machined or cast. The more complex or feature rich the component, the more economical the process becomes.

A key advantage of the DMLS process is that it can produce complex parts in very-hard-to-machine materials such as Cobalt Chrome, Maraging Steel and Stainless Steel. With 98% of the unused powder being recycled, the process is economical and environmentally friendly.

Many companies are dramatically reducing their time to market and more and more are adopting the DMLS process for low volume production of their components, ie. 'Rapid Manufacturing'. 3T are able to supply as many or as few parts at a time as required, saving on WIP inventory. Furthermore, small design variations for every single part can be incorporated and the DMLS process will treat them all in the same way. In effect, DMLS enables 'Mass Customisation'.

3T are set to become the UK's leading provider of low volume manufactured parts using both SLS and DMLS technologies, making Rapid Manufacturing a reality for many of their customers. Their consultative approach to doing business ensures their customers always get the best quality, service and delivery for all their prototyping and manufacturing requirements.

Find out more about how DMLS can assist in your development project, by visiting our Case Studies and Our Services sections. Full machine and material specifications are available in our Technical Data section. And you can obtain an instant quote by simply attaching your data to our online Request a Quote. Alternatively, you can speak to one of our team of specialists on 01635 580 284.

Home | Contact Us | Newsletter | Request A Quote | Case Studies | Latest News |About Us | Our Services | Seminars | Technical Data | Site Map

3T RPD LTD
Fulton Court, Wofford Way, New Greenham Park, Newbury, Berkshire, RG19 6HD, UK
Telephone: +44 (0)1635 580284 | Fax: +44 (0)1635 569857 | E-mail: post@3trpd.co.uk