Sawing 3D Printed Parts

Additive manufacturing is gaining increasing importance in a wide range of industries because it allows the generation of three-dimensional objects directly from a 3D CAD data record by means of various automated processes. The innovative the KASTOwin amc sawing system for additive manufacturing from KASTO Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG (Achern, Germany) is a high performance automatic band saw is specially designed for individual offcuts of 3D printed components. With its integrated 180 deg turning device and intelligent control system, this fully enclosed machine ensures maximum productivity, efficiency, precision and safety. The KASTOwin amc is specially designed for separating 3D printed components from their base plates. The machinability of the materials can vary. The band saw is equipped with a turning device that can rotate workpieces by 180 deg. By turning the parts upside down, wear on the saw blade is significantly reduced because only small quantities of chips are drawn through the cutting channel. The result is an efficient, precise cutting process with low tool wear and reliable operation.

The base plate with 3D printed parts is bolted to the fixture by means of a handling unit or crane. Alternatively, it can be fixed in position an optionally available quick clamping system. The machine is prepared for a suction unit so that components can be turned and sawed in automatic mode with minimum dust generation. The operator enters the thickness of the base plate via the SmartControl controller and its easy-to-use job wizard, which comes as standard. The upper section of the saw, which has a precise ball screw spindle drive, then moves to the exact height required and the saw automatically separates the parts with the required tolerance. The machine shuts off automatically when it reaches the end of the cut. This band saw has a standard cutting range of 400 mm x 400 mm, with other ranges available on request. The saw has an infinitely adjustable electromechanical downfeed with servomotor and a frequency-controlled spur gear mechanism that can achieve cutting speeds of twelve to 150 m per minute.

The torsionally-rigid welded structure with vibration-optimized ribbing ensures quiet operation. Users benefit from short cutting times and long tool life. Cooling is provided by a minimum-quantity lubrication system with automatic monitoring. The machine is fully enclosed for a high level of safety, cleanliness and sound insulation, but provides easy access for material supply and removal. The safety doors can be opened for loading and unloading of the base plate. The removal flap has a window for visual inspection. The operator can open the flap or press a button to stop the sawing process and then continue it. In this way, individual components can be removed from the replaceable collection container when several are being worked on. The band saw can be monitored by remote control for easy troubleshooting and optimization of processes. Specialists in the KASTO service center can set up a direct link with the machine via a secure internet connection. By accessing information from the controller, they can provide effective, targeted help with operating problems and carry out fast, detailed remote diagnostics. They can also transmit programs and adjust parameters to considerably reduce reaction times and downtimes.

KASTO, Inc., 3002 Venture Court, Export, PA 15632-8949, 724-325-5600, www.kasto.com.