With the same proprietary wire-feeding technology used in Mitsubishi's industry-leading wire EDMs, applications include rapid prototyping, mold and die, one-offs, short runs, mass manufacturing, maintenance, repair, tooling and more.

CHICAGO-MC Machinery Systems will be showcasing the new Mitsubishi AZ600 wire-laser metal 3D printer at RAPID+TCT 2023 from May 2 through May 4 at McCormick Place in Chicago at Booth 4351.

The Mitsubishi AZ600 melts welding wire with a laser beam to create high-quality 3D structures, producing high-speed, high-precision 3D printing while reducing energy consumption and waste.

Applications include rapid prototyping, mold and die, one-offs, short runs, mass manufacturing, maintenance, repair, tooling and more.

With the same proprietary wire-feeding technology used in Mitsubishi's industry-leading wire EDMs, a simple command on the machine's CNC control feeds the exact amount of wire to the target location. Unlike other 3D printers, the wire is in the front of the machine to make it easier to replace.

Other key features:

• It uses commercially available welding wire as the feedstock
• Mitsubishi's innovative laser oscillator and processing head prevent material oxidation
• A low-spatter process keeps the inside of the machine clean
• Parts manufactured using other processes can be incorporated into the 3D printing process, making it effective for build-up welding

Wire-laser metal 3D printing is a more efficient and versatile process than powder-based metal 3D printing. It offers a number of advantages, including higher deposition rates, better surface finish, reduced porosity, better mechanical properties and reduced powder waste.

Additionally, wire-laser metal 3D printing is much safer to operate because it doesn't use potentially flammable and explosive powder. And because wire-laser metal 3D printing is a closed system, the metal powder is contained within the printer, reducing the risk of operator exposure.

About MC Machinery
Headquartered in Elk Grove Village, Ill., MC Machinery Systems is a premier manufacturer of laser, press brake, wire EDM, sinker EDM, milling, high-speed VMC, automation equipment, and consumable products. A subsidiary of the Mitsubishi Corporation, MC Machinery serves industries including aerospace, mold and die, job shops, medical and energy. Along with manufacturing industry-leading products, MC Machinery provides an advanced, responsive service network and the production monitoring and support solution remote360®. Visit www.mcmachinery.com for more information.