A central component of process monitoring is the Powder Bed Monitoring function. The integrated camera in the TruPrint machine allows you to automatically monitor the powder bed and images are automatically processed. With this, you have an overview of the component state at all times and can analyze the quality parameters layer-by-layer. The TruPrint machines are equipped with a high-resolution camera system, so you have a precise view of each powder layer. Automatic evaluations are possible in conjunction with the image processing function, whereby the integrated dark field illumination additionally supports the image analysis. As the user, you determine the limit values at which notifications or error messages should appear. As the quality parameters are assigned per layer, locating malfunctions is fast and accurate. This means that you can intervene in the current build job at an early stage. In addition to the powder coating, the Powder Bed Monitoring function also records the state of the layer and identifies protruding parts in the powder bed. The process is ideal for evaluating the condition of the components during the LMF process and for identifying potential developments at an early stage. The automatic corrective recoating option ensures component quality in the event of coating errors. A detected lack of powder is automatically corrected by a new powder coating. After the LMF process, a comprehensive analysis of the individual layers can also be performed via the image selection and be compared with CAD data.

For a better overview of the LMF process in the TruPrint machine and the ability to optimally evaluate the component quality you can take advantage of the Melt Pool Monitoring product for the TruPrint 2000 and the TruPrint 5000, along with the Powder Bed Monitoring function. With Melt Pool Monitoring, the weld pool of the laser metal fusion process is monitored using sensors. Take advantage of a detailed quality check and documentation, layer-by-layer. This enables you to detect any process deviations early on, including during series production, and, if necessary, see critical areas of the component. These key figures can then be automatically compared with a reference build job to monitor the stability of the process. Furthermore, when using several lasers, you can also easily monitor all of weld pools in parallel. The data can be evaluated on a desktop computer or offline with the Monitoring Analyzer.