British AM software company AMFG has added a new Build Preparation tool to its Additive Manufacturing Execution System (MES). The new feature enables AMFG customers to achieve even more using the print management solution by optimizing print builds for end-use applications and further automating build preparation.
AMFG’s MES software platform has one main goal: to streamline the additive manufacturing workflow through automation. Over the past year or so, the London-based company has been building its platform, integrating new automated tools, such as a request and ordering portal and a holistic build analysis feature, to meet this end.
The newly released Build Preparation tool adds to the offering, by enabling users to visualize and orient parts within the build envelope, as well as set optimal build parameters. This last capability helps to ensure repeatability in the printing process.
The new feature is also integrated with AMFG’s production scheduling and quality assurance management tools, which means that users can seamlessly schedule approved builds and ensure they meet quality standards. Additionally, the MES software tracks changes made to the build parameters to increase traceability and reliability.
“Repeatability and traceability are critical requirements for any manufacturer looking to leverage AM for end-use parts,” commented Keyvan Karimi, CEO of AMFG. “An integrated sequence of production steps is required to achieve this — and build preparation is an integral part of this process. However, it’s a step that has traditionally been disconnected from the rest of the workflow.
“Instead of viewing build preparation as an isolated step, we’ve integrated it into our MES software so that our customers can manage more of their production processes seamlessly and ensure greater repeatability using our software. There is also an additional level of traceability, as all of the data collected throughout the lifecycle of a part is tracked by the system and can be accessed when necessary.”
