Fonon’s BTS technology supports scaling in metal processing

Fonon Corporation, manufacturer of laser material processing systems for subtractive and additive manufacturing, is highlighting the benefits of its Bulk-To-Shape (BTS) additive manufacturing technology for the metal forming and processing industry. The BTS technology is currently being developed by Fonon and has not yet been fully commercialized.

At the heart of current developments in additive manufacturing (AM) is the trend towards scaling production through digital manufacturing technologies. This is being driven by advances in materials science, software development and series production, among other things. Partnerships between machine manufacturers such as Fonon and providers of software and related technologies play a key role here. This collaboration makes it possible to use 3D metal printing technologies in combination with AI-based software platforms to improve the efficiency and quality of the printing process and meet industrial requirements.

Fonon’s BTS technology offers a new approach to material management by transforming obsolete parts or raw materials into fully functional components. These components can have complex internal and external structures while minimizing material loss. A key aspect of the development of BTS is its compatibility with artificial intelligence (AI). The integration of AI is intended to support visual recognition, data collection and process adjustments in real time during production. This could help to avoid potential errors and refine the final product, reducing the cost and time required for process optimization.

Experts emphasize that scaling additive manufacturing requires highly productive printers that are incorporated into an integrated end-to-end workflow system. The aim is to create workflows that improve quality control, support more efficient and repeatable mass production and enable full traceability. Additive manufacturing offers significant benefits, including the possibility of customized production, optimal material utilization and the creation of lighter yet robust components.

The combination of additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence could boost productivity in the industry in new ways and usher in a new era of automated production. The challenge is to close the gap between data preparation and actual printing in order to exploit the full potential of these technologies.