InssTek

The MX-Fab specification comes standard with the LFM-2, an automatic variable optical module. The LFM-2 supports up to four different laser beam sizes ( 800μm, 1200μm, 1600μm, and 2400μm, respectively) via software control within a single module , without the need to manually detach the optical cartridge.

Large parts exceeding 1m in size can be handled by manufacturing a ' gantry -type custom machine' that expands the chamber and drive axis configuration based on the MX-Fab architecture, or by configuring a ' multi-axis robot arm system' equipped with a separate shielded exterior structure . A detailed stacking strategy must be established in advance based on the drawing information and geometric purpose of the target part.

DMT® (Direct Metal Tooling) is Insstek proprietary core process technology that organically integrates real-time control of a laser melt pool , precision powder feeding, and a closed-loop feedback system on a single platform. It realizes complex internal hollow structures or direct bonding between dissimilar materials— which are difficult to achieve with conventional casting or machining— through a single additive manufacturing process. It precisely implements stacking height tracking control and simultaneous multi-powder feeding functions for the manufacturing of high-value-added parts, new material R&D, and the repair of damaged components.

This technology measures the actual stacking height in real-time using a high-precision camera sensor at every moment when metal powder is melted and deposited . If the measured dimensions deviate from the original machining design values (3D modeling), a closed -loop control mechanism is implemented to automatically adjust the laser output immediately to correct the error in real-time . This ensures consistent dimensional accuracy and structural reproducibility without accumulated errors, even during long-duration additive manufacturing processes for large parts.

LFM is a core hardware device that integrates optical functions for precisely controlling and focusing a high-power laser beam inside the processing head, a coaxial powder supply nozzle structure, internal cooling channels to prevent thermal deformation of the head, and shield gas passages to prevent oxidation of the molten pool into a single compact module.

The LFM-1 utilizes a replaceable optic cartridge mechanism. It operates by allowing the user to manually mount a suitable cartridge based on the target bead width and process conditions. This is useful when maintaining stable and continuous machining quality in a selected beam size environment .

The LFM-2 features Automatic Zoom Optics. It enables automatic, real-time variable control of the laser beam size from a single module state, eliminating the need for users to stop the equipment or disassemble the head to manually replace cartridges during the process. This eliminates process downtime associated with parts replacement, dramatically improving operational efficiency and manufacturing continuity.

This is to simultaneously control 'precision' and 'production speed' within a single process for machining a single part. When layering fine areas or thin-wall shapes, a small beam size must be selected to maximize dimensional accuracy, while in sections requiring wide internal core filling or high-speed layering, the beam size must be changed to a large size to increase the overall build speed. By applying LFM-2, the laser beam size can be controlled and converted in real-time without interruption during the process, up to three times the minimum specification.

In a mass production environment where products of fixed specifications are primarily produced repeatedly using a single material, the LFM-1 method with a fixed-beam structure is economical and efficient. On the other hand, for flexible R&D and high-value-added multi-product mass production environments that handle various new materials or require frequent switching of bead width and stacking conditions depending on the shape of the processed parts, the automatic variable LFM-2 configuration is recommended.

The CVM (Clogged Vibration Method) technology, independently developed and patented by Insstek, is a mechanism that finely controls the supply amount of metal powder through a precise vibration control method. Its greatest strength is the ability to stably maintain precise control of the powder supply amount for a long time. It can reliably control the supply amount down to ultra-low flow rates of at least 0.03 g/min, serving as a foundation for achieving precise alloy composition ratios in multi-material stacking or new alloy R&D processes.