Additive Snack

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld explores the importance of automating powder removal in the additive manufacturing (AM) process with Hemank Raj, Process Development Engineer from Solukon. They discuss how automating this process, which may seem minor, is crucial for scaling production and ensuring high-quality outputs in the industry. Hemank provides insights on the background of Solukon, which evolved from an engineering consultancy to a key player in automated depowdering solutions. They delve into the technical aspects, including the steps and benefits of automated depowdering, the safety advantages, and the key factors to consider in the design and production stages. 

The episode highlights the significant impact of automated de-powdering on sectors like aerospace, medical, automotive, and energy by improving efficiency, safety, and reliability. Hemank also shares upcoming innovations, such as integrating robotic arms to further enhance the de-powdering process.

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at additive.snack@eos-na.com. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS. For more information about Solukon, visit their website and connect with Hemank Raj on LinkedIn.

01:00 Guest Introduction: Hemank Raj from Solukon
01:14 The Importance of Automating Powder Removal
02:00 Solukon's Journey and Market-Driven Innovation
03:52 Automated Depowdering Process Explained
08:49 Challenges and Solutions in Depowdering Large Parts
14:18 Ensuring Quality and Safety in Depowdering
15:39 Programming and Customizing Depowdering Systems
21:43 Design Considerations for Automated Depowdering
23:42 Understanding the L by D Ratio
24:05 Smooth Internal Channels and Surface Roughness
24:46 Introducing SPR Pathfinder Software
26:04 Design Considerations and Best Practices
26:50 Advanced Depowdering Techniques
29:12 Post-Depowdering Steps
33:46 Challenges with Specific Materials
37:12 Industry Applications and Innovations
42:01 Future of Automated Depowdering

Creators and Guests

Host
Fabian Alefeld

What is Additive Snack?

Join host Fabian Alefeld and a range of guests as they discuss all things additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing news, with interviews and real-world stories to educate and entertain. Each episode, Fabian talks to AM experts, professionals in specialist fields, and 3D printing users from all walks of life to deliver a well-rounded view on the state of AM.

Cut through the confusion surrounding polymer and metal additive manufacturing solutions with our digestible, down-to-earth discussions that deliver insights into common mistakes and best practice tips so you can get a clear understanding of AM — layer for layer.

Whether you’re curious about 3D printing technology for the aerospace industry, a deep dive into post processing, or applications of injection molding — we leave no spare parts behind. We want to provide you with the additive insight needed to stay laser focused and leverage every opportunity 3D printing materials have to offer.

Join us for an Additive Snack and we’ll help you and your business achieve growth and success through the latest developments in AM.

No marketing B.S. and no product pitches. Just the education, inspiration and information you and your organization need to drive business growth, brought to you by global AM leader EOS.

Get ready to feed your AM knowledge and find your path to success!