Compact entry-level solution for automated post-processing

AM Solutions’ S1 Basic is now commercially available and is designed for industrial users processing smaller individual parts through small-batch production, making it equally suited for development, laboratory, and pilot environments.

Particularly for small components and flexible additive manufacturing scenarios, the requirements for reproducible and cost-effective process solutions are increasing, while manual post-processing steps are reaching their limits in terms of efficiency, stability, and part quality. This iswhere the S1 Basic from AM Solutions comes in. The compact system was developed for the automated cleaning and surface finishing of polymer-based 3D-printed parts, translating these requirements into a standardized workflow.

The S1 Basic is specifically designed for applications in:

• Selective Laser Sintering (SLS),
• Multi Jet Fusion (MJF),
• High Speed Sintering (HSS) and
• Selective Absorption Fusion (SAF).

In addition, post-processing of additively manufactured polymer parts produced by other printing technologies is also supported, further broadening the system’s range of applications.

The system accommodates small to medium parts and offers two operating modes. In automated mode, components up to 100 × 100 × 100mm can be processed, while manual mode supports larger parts up to 350 × 200 × 200mm. The combination of different sizes and operating modes allows the system to be flexibly integrated into a wide variety of application scenarios.

The S1 Basic is based on the 2-in-1 process that is characteristic of AM Solutions, combining cleaning and surface finishing in a single system using only one type of blasting media. In addition to saving floor space, this approach significantly simplifies process workflows, reducing both time and costs.

The end-to-end workflow encompasses the removal of powder residues as well as surface homogenization and shot peening. This results in more uniform surface quality and improves outcomes in downstream processes such as vapor smoothing or dyeing.

The integrated blasting media recirculation system with powder separation ensures consistently high blasting media quality, establishing the foundation for reproducible results over extended runtimes. At the same time, blasting media consumption is reduced and the need for manual intervention during the process is significantly minimized, contributing to lower ongoing operating costs and greater process autonomy.

The integrated antistatic system minimises powder adhesion on parts as well as within the process chamber, thereby stabilizing the overall process. In addition, an industrial-grade filter system ensures a consistently clean working environment, even during continuous operation.

The S1 Basic is designed for easy integration into existing production environments. A Siemens S7-1200 control system with a full-color HMI enables intuitive operation and the storage of individual processing recipes.

A large-format viewing window and LED status indicators enhance process monitoring during operation. Full front access simplifies maintenance, service, and part handling, contributing to high system availability. At the same time, the design allows wall-adjacent installation on three sides, enabling flexible integration even in confined or non-industrial environments, as all relevant access points are reachable from the front.

Thanks to an adjustable rotating basket, a variably positionable blast gun holder, and a choice of automatic or manual operating mode, the system can be individually adapted to a wide range of requirements. In addition, an integrated blow-off gun supports post-cleaning, while antistatic gloves ensure safe manual operation. With a noise level below 75dB(A), the system is also suitable for production-related environments.