Materialise Debuts Data and Build Prep Software

Materialise will unveil e-Stage for Metal+ software and will introduce the solution during the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) show in Chicago, to take place March 10-14. The software optimizes data and build preparation for laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) systems using physics-based modeling to automate the support structure generation.

“By automating support structure generation with Materialise’s software, you can streamline your 3D printing process,” says Mirco Schöpf, Product Line Manager Software at EOS. “It simplifies support removal, reduces support volume up to 80%, eases powder extraction, and decreases build plate machining after an effortless part removal.”

e-Stage for Metal+ leverages physics-based modeling to calculate where deformations during the 3D printing process will occur and automatically generates needle-thin and cone supports where needed. Combining the two support types optimizes stability and heat distribution during the 3D printing process, helping to avoid part deformation while reducing post-processing efforts. Automated tools like e-Stage for Metal+ lower the learning curve, allowing users to connect the software to any machine and quickly optimize support generation.

“Metal AM users tend to overload parts with support structures during manual data preparation,” explains Ian O'Loughlin, Metal Practice Lead at Materialise. “They want to avoid defects and the costs associated with reprinting the parts. Automating support structure generation at the sweet spot of printability and required supports saves time, material, and post-processing costs.”

e-Stage for Metal+ is a module for Magics, Materialise’s leading data and build preparation software and core element of its 3D Print Suite. Magics is a technology-neutral software offering compatibility with nearly all import file formats and connectivity to all major 3D printing technologies. 

“We are continuously enhancing our software solutions to support AM users in their daily business,” says Lieve Boeykens, Solution Strategist at Materialise. “Automation can support AM users in bridging knowledge gaps to adopt the technology faster, accelerating return-on-investment, and helping them lower the overall production cost.”

To learn more about e-Stage for Metal+ and other software solutions from Materialise, visit booth 8 in salon D.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.