Starting with a 3D-CAD model, Sciaky’s fully articulated and moving electron beam gun deposits metal (via wire feedstock), layer by layer, until the part is built and ready for minor finish machining.
Sciaky’s IRISS™ (Interlayer Realtime Imaging & Sensing System) is a patented Closed-Loop Control Technology that automates the EBAM™ process. A custom camera system provides a real-time view of the molten pool. The molten pool size is a function of pool temperature and surface tension. Temperature changes are adjusted based on geometry and other factors, such as consumable behaviour. Constantly monitoring and adjusting parameters to maintain a constant pool size. Consistent production of high quality parts, from the first part to the last.
Deposition rates typically range from 7 to 20 lbs. (3.18 to 9.07 kg) of metal per hour, depending upon part geometry and the material selected. When it comes to producing large, high quality metal parts, no other metal additive manufacturing process in the world works faster — or is more cost-effective — than EBAM™.
Courtesy of Lockheed Martin
The best material candidates for Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing (EBAM™) applications are high-value metals with long lead times (for raw material) that can be manufactured with wire feedstock and applications where reducing costs and lead times its a key factor.
Aerospace applications like aircraft frames, structures, jet engines, fuel tanks, rockets, missiles and propulsion are ideal for this technology such as Oil and Gas equipment, turbine blades for energy production, nuclear components, power generation, cladding of critical surfaces for corrosion or thermal barrier protection and industrial pump components.
Specified applications have been developed in refractory metal components, medical equipment, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, marine propulsion and ballistic materials for military vehicles and tanks.