FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Additive Manufacturing has no more secrets.
Which metals can I use on a Prima Additive machine?
Prima Additive offers a comprehensive selection of metal powders, ranging from aluminium to nickel, steel, titanium, as well as copper alloys. We develop the right process parameters to set up your machine and ensure quality and repeatability. We are always willing to research and develop new materials suitable for additive manufacturing to satisfy every need.
What is the minimum size I can produce?
The minimum size that can be achieved is a line measuring 0.12-0.15mm in width with our Powder Bed Fusion machines. This level of detail allows you to create complex shapes even on tiny components.
What is the maximum size?
The maximum size depends on the volume of the machine: Prima Additive solutions range from a volume of Ø 150mm; h=160mm in our 150 series with Powder Bed Fusion technology, up to a working area of 4140x2100x1020mm in our Direct Energy Deposition Laser Next 2141 machine.
Can I combine different materials on the same object?
With our Direct Energy Deposition machines, you can work with up to two different materials at the same time, thanks to a powder feeder equipped with two separate metal powder hoppers. You can also coat or add parts to a metal component using a different material to the original one.
What is the average time needed to produce an object?
It is not possible to establish an average time to produce an object. Production speed depends on the application and is not exclusively linked to the part's volume. It is influenced by several factors, such as the diameter of the laser focal point, the thickness of the powder layer, the material, the machine's working area or the number of lasers.
What level of detail can be achieved with Prima Additive machines?
For Powder Bed Fusion technology the accuracy of our machines ranges from +/- 0.05mm for small parts to +/- 0.1mm for large parts, while for Direct Energy Deposition technology our solutions have an accuracy of +/- 0.2mm.
I own a Prima Power 3D laser machine. Can I convert it into an additive manufacturing system?
Yes, you can turn your Prima Power 3D laser machine into a metal additive manufacturing machine with our new Direct Energy Deposition Kit. The kit includes all the equipment required for direct energy deposition applications: an innovative and multifunctional laser head, a highly efficient laser source and a highly reliable powder feeder.
I currently produce mechanical components with traditional CNC machines. How do I know if I can make the same products using additive manufacturing and if it is suitable for my business?
To answer this question, we have created this page Request an application assessment.
On this page, you can send us a 3D model of the part you want to create: our experts will assess your business case and send you a complete application assessment. Free of charge.
I don't know much about additive manufacturing. How can I get the skills I need to make the most of this technology?
Our team of specialized engineers is always at your side to guide you towards adopting this technology. We offer training programs and upgrades to enable you to make the most of our machines and their software, maximizing production and quality. We provide training and support from the investment appraisal phase to after-sales service.
Take advantage of our services
Application support
You imagine it, we make it reality.
Metal additive manufacturing offers endless possibilities for companies like yours, but often when facing challenges such as implementing a new technology within your context, what you need is the right teammate. That teammate is us: we like to think of it as a partnership. We like to work close to our customers, sharing knowledge, ideas, dreams and, why not, fears.
Design support
Additive changes you.
The strength of additive manufacturing lies in being able to make parts with shapes that were previously unthinkable. For this reason, if you are approaching this technology for the first time, you will probably need to adjust the design of your components to make them more functional, lighter, and better performing.
Qualification and certification
Quality additive manufacturing.
In addition to the need for dimensional accuracy and mechanical characteristics of finished parts, the need to certify parts to industry benchmark standards also frequently emerges.