3D Systems DMP Factory 500 — Technical data

The DMP Factory 500 is 3D Systems' largest metal laser powder bed fusion system and is built as a modular production line. The printer module exposes a 500 × 500 × 500 mm build volume with three 500 W fibre lasers; the powder stays in a vacuum-tight removable print module (RPM) that moves between printer, depowdering, recycling, parking and transport modules. Printing, unpacking and powder preparation thus run in parallel, and operators hardly come into contact with powder. Qualified so far are Ni718, Ti Gr23, AlSi10Mg and HX. The system is designed for large series parts in 24/7 operation.

A used Factory 500 is more a plant project than a machine purchase. What matters is which modules are included and their condition, because without depowdering and recycling modules part of the concept is missing. The printer module alone weighs over eight tonnes; foundation, crane or transport route, 400 V supply, argon and two chillers must be planned. Hours on each laser, powder history and service contract belong in every inspection.