This new LDED 3D printing solution enables remote metal repairs
Introducing a new LDED solution poised to redefine point-of-demand manufacturing and metal repair
Remote manufacturing is becoming increasingly important for efficiency, flexibility and cost savings in the modern manufacturing landscape. Improved resource utilisation goes hand in hand with this, as does lessening the carbon footprint of manufacturing operations as global industries work towards their net zero goals.
Additive manufacturing is one technology that is changing the game here, particularly through enabling on-demand production in remote or challenging environments. A recent string in the technology’s bow is Additec’s new Amdroid X laser directed energy deposition (LDED) turnkey solution, designed for the defence, construction, energy and emergency response industries.
MISSION-CRITICAL MANUFACTURING
Built for rapid deployment, the Amdroid X enables manufacturing and repairs to metal parts in remote and off-grid locations. The machine’s portability, efficiency and autonomy is poised to transform manufacturing in areas such as offshore oil platforms, temporary construction sites, and disaster recovery zones where traditional manufacturing methods fall short.
“The Amdroid X is a true point-of-demand manufacturing solution, tailored for the defence sector and unmatched in the market,” says Brian Matthews, Additec’s CEO. “Its advanced features, adaptability and rapid deployment capabilities address critical needs across multiple industries. This self-sufficient system operates with minimal external resources, making it invaluable in remote and off-grid environments.”
DELVING INTO THE TECH
The Amdroid X’s portable modular design is certainly eye-catching – the technology is housed in a 10-foot container expandable to 169 square feet. Included in the footprint is an integrated command centre for seamless operation in harsh conditions, an advanced energy system, self-sustaining gas supply and user-friendly software tools.
Featuring an optional ultra high power 12kW fibre laser, the system is capable of producing large-scale metal components from stainless steel, aluminium, copper and other materials.
“The Amdroid X streamlines the prototyping process by enabling fast, on-site production of metal parts,” an Additec engineer explains. “With its powerful 6kW fibre laser – upgradeable to 12kW – it achieves deposition rates of up to 4kg/h, allowing engineers to iterate designs quickly and cut development time. Its multi-axis robotic system handles complex geometries with precision, reducing the need for post-processing and enabling faster evaluation on prototypes.”
Meanwhile, 54kWh of storage across four ‘power walls’ make up the container’s advanced energy system, which is fully rechargeable via solar technology to ensure reliable off-grid performance. The container also has a self-sustaining gas supply by means of a built-in nitrogen generator that extracts nitrogen from ambient air, eliminating the need for external shielding gas in most applications.
“The Amdroid X can manufacture a wide range of high-performance metal components, including engine components such as turbine blades, housings, and other critical aerospace and energy parts,” continues Additec’s engineer. “The system can also manufacture structural parts such as support brackets, frames and load-bearing components for industrial applications, and maritime hardware like propeller blades and hull reinforcements. The machine can also produce specialised tools and moulds tailored for specific manufacturing needs.”
WIDE APPEAL
“The Amdroid X’s versatility makes it a game-changer across multiple industries,” says the Additec engineer. “In defence, it enables on-site production and repair of mission-critical parts in remote locations, keeping operations running smoothly. In aerospace, it supports the production of lightweight, complex parts and enables field repairs, reducing downtime and supply chain dependency. The Amdroid X is also designed for use on ships and offshore platforms, making maintenance and repairs more efficient. Finally, in the energy and mining sector, it can assist in fabricating and repairing large metal components for oil rigs and infrastructure, ensuring
minimal downtime.”
By enabling on-site production, the Amdroid X could help to eliminate supply chain delays and accelerate repair times. This capability is crucial in situations where fast turnaround is essential, such as military operations to ensure mission readiness, remote energy installations for reduced downtime, or disaster response for the rapid fabrication of essential components to restore damaged infrastructure quickly.
VERSATILE MANUFACTURING
Alongside its remote manufacturing capabilities, the Amdroid X can also provide benefits for in-house production sites, says Additec’s engineer.
“While it excels in field deployment, the Amdroid X is also a valuable addition to factory floors,” they confirm. “Its compact footprint and fast setup make it perfect for producing small batches, custom components or on-demand replacements without disrupting existing production lines. We also have the Amdroid 3D printer which is specifically designed for that environment.”
So, how will portable technologies like the Amdroid X influence how we manufacture parts in the future?
“Portable, self-contained manufacturing solutions are changing the game by decentralising production and bringing manufacturing closer to the point of need,” Additec’s engineer says. “They are also enhancing agility and enabling quick adaptation to new challenges and reducing downtime. Lowering costs is another factor, through cutting transportation expenses, lead times and material cost and waste. The Amdroid X uses wire feedstock and doesn’t need argon or nitrogen for specific applications, as it uses the nitrogen generator.
“In short, the Amdroid X is redefining how industries approach manufacturing, making on-site production more efficient, cost-effective and adaptable – especially in challenging environments.”
