ABB has introduced the 3D printing capabilities of its PowerPac software to its RobotStudio simulation and offline programming software, giving users the ability to program ABB robots for additive manufacturing.
While traditional 3D printing methods require programming the printing paths—which involves plotting millions of points and trajectories—ABB’s PowerPac software can translate any standard slicer software design into ABB’s simulation environment and robot code. This means an operator can progress from the CAD design stage to final modeling of a product in roughly half an hour, according to ABB.
ABB says PowerPac will support a variety of processes, such as welding and printing with granules or concrete, making it well suited for low-volume, high-mix printing.
“With our new 3D Printing software, we are offering customers a faster and more streamlined 3D printing process. Coupled with the high performance of our robots, this means manufacturers can now produce high-quality 3D printed objects for a variety of industrial applications more efficiently,” said Steven Wyatt, head of portfolio and digital at ABB Robotics and Discrete Automation.
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