Piab Launches Vacuum Conveyor for AM

Piab recently introduced the piFLOWam vacuum conveyor developed specifically for additive manufacturing.

The design of the piFLOWam is based on requirements from OEMs within the additive manufacturing segment. It features Piab’s proprietary COAX vacuum technology as well as a butterfly valve. The butterfly valve is not sensitive to pressure fluctuations and is able to keep a material batch inside without the pump being mounted. It has a standard TC connection that makes it simple to integrate. The unit is easily integrated with any type or brand of 3D printer, sieve, hopper, or other intermediate vessel. The product is controlled by pneumatic or electrical control units.

Piab’s vacuum conveying technology can solve challenges related to additive manufacturing. It is ideal for filling a printer with metal powders, reclaiming or cleaning excess material from the printers and postproduction, and filling or emptying metal powders to or from adjacent equipment.

The piFLOWam is made of stainless steel and can withstand material temperatures up to 140°F (60°C). The unit weighs 33 lbs (15 kg) and reaches a maximum feed pressure of 101.5 psi (7 bar).

For more information, visit www.piab.com.