Hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing cells are emerging in this industry. As you plan your visit to the RAPID + TCT Show, May 9 -11 2017, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburg, PA, one booth you might want to visit is that of Methods Machine Tools Inc., (Booth 2637). Method is a supplier of precision machine tools, 3D printing technology, and automation. The company will show its innovative additive manufacturing cell designed to increase production in 3D manufacturing throughput. The cell combines additive manufacturing with robotics and subtractive processes for fast, efficient finished 3D part production.

“We’re really excited about this full production cell which addresses how manufacturers can successfully integrate necessary post-process machining operations in a high productivity, end-to-end solution,” said Methods 3D Inc. General Manager Benjamin Fisk.

The 20-foot cell includes a 3D-printed product in-feeding station, which shuttles 3D parts on build plates into a FANUC C600 EDM machine that makes a cut between the parts and build plates. In the next station a FANUC robot snaps the plates from the printed parts and transfers the parts to a FANUC RoboDrill for a final machining operation.“This automated lights-out manufacturing cell was designed to reduce the total time to complete parts from 3D printing to final post-processing,” added John Lucier, National Automation Manager at Methods Machine Tools, Inc. “It can easily quadruple total part throughput while eliminating manual labor.”

“This automated lights-out manufacturing cell was designed to reduce the total time to complete parts from 3D printing to final post-processing,” added John Lucier, National Automation Manager at Methods Machine Tools, Inc. “It can easily quadruple total part throughput while eliminating manual labor.”

Methods automation builds flexible automation systems for customers throughout North America, using robotics and a full range of precision machine tools. Methods 3D partner 3D Systems Corporation, will be exhibiting 3D printers and production applications in booth # 911, and in # 2525 which is adjacent to Methods’ booth.

Methods Machine Tools Inc.
www.methodsmachine.com