Layer Time Control optimizes speed and temperature for perfect fusion

In today's installment on the groundbreaking capabilities of Thermwood's Large Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM) systems, we’re spotlighting a feature that brings next level of precision and efficiency with Thermwood’s Layer Time Control technology, built directly into the LSAM control system.

 

This cutting-edge feature automatically adjusts print speed in real-time, ensuring each layer remains at an optimal temperature for flawless layer fusion. By dynamically managing heat and timing throughout the print process, our technology guarantees exceptional results while offering real-time adjustments—even as the machine is printing. Unlock the full potential of your additive manufacturing with superior Layer Time Control technology, where precision meets performance.

 

𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥:
• Technology built into the LSAM control system
• Automatically controls the time spent on each layer by adjusting the print speed
• Dynamically handled at the control in real time
• Ensures that the print is staying at an optimal print temperature at all times
• Can be immediately adjusted (while the machine is printing)
• Optimal temperature range results in better layer fusion

 

 

Some Powerful Advantages:

• Wide variety of "Print-Ready" materials available - including high-temp

• One click activation to apply all parameters necessary to print

• Material configuration files can be shared with all LSAMs

• Automatic routines to load, empty, purge and clean materials from the system

• On-screen instructions guide the operator

• Total freedom to source material from any supplier

• Thermwood will assist in qualifying new materials and train you to qualify new materials yourself.

• Freedom to work directly with material suppliers to develop specialty materials for your specific application.

Thermwood has been the market and technology leader in Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) since 2016, thanks to our groundbreaking LSAM (Large Scale Additive Manufacturing) systems. 

 

𝐋𝐒𝐀𝐌 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫:

- Superior Print Consistency

- Dynamic Control of Print Temperature

- Large Scale Focused Slicing Software

- Confidence Through Thermwood's Legendary Training, Service and Support

Stay tuned for more insights into how our LSAM systems are revolutionizing large format additive manufacturing! 

Configure and qualify materials effortlessly for large-scale additive manufacturing.

In our latest installment on the groundbreaking capabilities of Thermwood's Large Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM) systems, we’re spotlighting a feature that brings unmatched material flexibility and simplicity to large-scale 3D printing: Thermwood’s streamlined approach to material configuration.

 

Discover new levels of material flexibility and ease of use with Thermwood's LSAM (Large Scale Additive Manufacturing) systems! With LSAM, you can access a wide range of “print-ready” materials, all with one-click activation to streamline setup.

 

Our systems come equipped with material configuration files that can be shared across all LSAM units, along with automatic routines for loading, purging, and cleaning, ensuring smooth transitions and hassle-free operation.  Plus, Thermwood gives you total freedom to work with any material supplier, develop specialty materials for unique applications, and we’ll assist you in qualifying new materials while training you to do the same independently. 

 

Some Powerful Advantages:

• Wide variety of "Print-Ready" materials available - including high-temp

• One click activation to apply all parameters necessary to print

• Material configuration files can be shared with all LSAMs

• Automatic routines to load, empty, purge and clean materials from the system

• On-screen instructions guide the operator

• Total freedom to source material from any supplier

• Thermwood will assist in qualifying new materials and train you to qualify new materials yourself.

• Freedom to work directly with material suppliers to develop specialty materials for your specific application.

Thermwood has been the market and technology leader in Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) since 2016, thanks to our groundbreaking LSAM (Large Scale Additive Manufacturing) systems. 

 

𝐋𝐒𝐀𝐌 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫:

- Superior Print Consistency

- Dynamic Control of Print Temperature

- Large Scale Focused Slicing Software

- Confidence Through Thermwood's Legendary Training, Service and Support

Stay tuned for more insights into how our LSAM systems are revolutionizing large format additive manufacturing! 

Explore Thermwood's Patented Bead Board Substrate

In our latest installment on the transformative power of Thermwood’s Large Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM) systems, we're showcasing an clever innovation that’s reshaping additive manufacturing: the Patented Bead Board Substrate.

 

This unique substrate offers unparalleled strength and flexibility, providing a stable foundation for your printed parts while preventing stress and distortion—a common issue in traditional substrates. With advantages like a strong initial tack, secure holding during printing, and effortless removal with basic tools, our bead board substrate sets a new standard in reliability and reusability. Join us as we explore how LSAM technology from Thermwood continues to lead the way in advanced manufacturing solutions!

 

Some Powerful Advantages:

• Strong initial tack

• Allows the printed part to float during its initial contact

• Holds strong throughout the entire printing process

• Prevents distortion/stresses that build in other substrates

• Holds well enough for initial machining operations

• Removed easily with simple everyday tools

• Reusable and repairable

Thermwood has been the market and technology leader in Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) since 2016, thanks to our groundbreaking LSAM (Large Scale Additive Manufacturing) systems. 

 

𝐋𝐒𝐀𝐌 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫:

- Superior Print Consistency

- Dynamic Control of Print Temperature

- Large Scale Focused Slicing Software

- Confidence Through Thermwood's Legendary Training, Service and Support

Stay tuned for more insights into how our LSAM systems are revolutionizing large format additive manufacturing! 

 

Explore Thermwood's Patented LSAM Chilled Compression Wheel

Discover the latest in our LSAM series! Today, we’re highlighting Thermwood’s Patented Chilled Compression Wheel — engineered for precision, bead consistency, and enhanced bonding strength, delivering fused structures that surpass aerospace standards. See how Thermwood’s LSAM continues to lead in Large Format Additive Manufacturing! 

 

𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬:

• Finishes the bead's final shape and dimension

• Provides important active bead compaction

• The nozzle tip is slightly above the finished bead height

• Nozzle tip does not drag through the material to form the final shape

• Prevents excessive material build up on the nozzle

• Temperature controlled only to prevent polymer affinity (sticking to wheel)

• Removal of inter-bead voids

• Consistency in printed composite microstructures

• Enhances interlayer bonding

• Enhances lateral bead to bead solidity

• Layer-to-layer fusion is over 50% GREATER in strength when compared to methods that utilize a tamping device or those that have no application device at all.

• This results in fused, solid structures that hold vacuum exceeding aerospace standards, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 the need for fill compounds or sealants.

Thermwood has been the market and technology leader in Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) since 2016, thanks to our groundbreaking LSAM (Large Scale Additive Manufacturing) systems. 

 

𝐋𝐒𝐀𝐌 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫:

- Superior Print Consistency

- Dynamic Control of Print Temperature

- Large Scale Focused Slicing Software

- Confidence Through Thermwood's Legendary Training, Service and Support

Stay tuned for more insights into how our LSAM systems are revolutionizing large format additive manufacturing!

 

 

Explore the Game-Changing Melt Core System in Thermwood’s LSAM Technology

Thermwood has been pioneering Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) since 2016, leading the industry with our advanced LSAM systems. These machines offer more than just large-scale capabilities—they deliver an unmatched printing experience with superior print consistency, precise temperature control, and powerful slicing software.

In this series, we’ll take you through the exclusive benefits of LSAM technology, starting with our patented Melt Core System. Discover how this cutting-edge innovation redefines material processing to achieve faster, more reliable, and efficient large-scale 3D printing. Ready to explore the future of manufacturing? Dive in and see why Thermwood is the leader in LFAM! 

 

 

• High output deposition rates
• Large consistent bead sizes
• Standard Melt Core producing over 200 lbs/hr (90.72 kg/hr)
• Optional Larger Melt Core producing over 500 lbs/hr (226.8 kg/hr)
• PID heater control to tightly maintain processing temperatures
• Up to 450° C (850° F) processing temperatures
• Custom Industrial Extruder Screw
• Compression Following Wheel (temperature-controlled) 

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Thermwood Patented Polymer Melt Pump

• Custom patented extruder screw design
• Provides a more consistent melt temperature
• Material flows from the extruder into a fixed displacement polymer melt pump system (patented)
• Melt Pump precisely delivers material to the nozzle
• Eliminates the problem of Extruder Surging
• Not necessary to change the extruder screw when switching between different materials

Virtually all, if not all, large format, FDM additive systems, sold to industry in the last several years have been Thermwood LSAMs.

Watch the video below to learn 21 reasons why:

Thermwood routinely applies for patent protection on additive manufacturing technology it develops for its LSAM large format additive systems. During COVID, we received electronic copies of patents that were granted, however, the official hard copies were withheld.

A couple of days before Christmas 2021, we received a package containing the official hard copy of 32 additive manufacturing patents. This was certainly a one-day record for Thermwood and a welcome sight!

In addition to these latest patents, Thermwood already has a large portfolio of earlier issued patents covering the unique, large format (5x10 foot table and larger) 3D print technology it has developed. This LSAM technology is currently the most widely used large scale additive print technology operating in industry today. It’s used in a wide variety of industries including aerospace, transportation, heavy equipment, foundry and large decorative structures. It is being used to produce a diversity of products including aerospace patterns, molds and tooling, heavy equipment foundry patterns, bus chassis, large valve body foundry patterns and trim tooling. It was even used to print the tallest 3D printed structure in the world, the 92 foot tall Al Davis Memorial Torch at Allegiant stadium in Las Vegas.

Thermwood offers this unique patented technology on a wide variety of equipment, the largest, most diverse product offering of its kind available today. It includes a broad selection of machines, including single and dual gantry, fixed and moving table configurations, with both print-only and print-and-trim systems, from 5 by 10 foot to 20 by 60 foot print envelopes. We are working on even larger machines but that’s for another day.

The primary focus of the patented LSAM technology is to reliably and repeatedly produce the highest quality, best fused, most homogeneous printed structures possible from a variety of reinforced thermoplastic polymer composites including those intended to operate at elevated temperatures. Although it is nice to have been granted these patents, it is even nicer to finally have the official hard copies in hand.

Current Problems When Assembling Cabinets in the Field

Creating the components of your cabinets is one aspect of the job, but you also need to be able to assemble them quickly and correctly.

Many cabinet shops manufacture cabinets at one location and then assemble and install at another (the customer's home, etc).  When you flat-pack an entire kitchen's worth of cabinets so that it stacks neatly, it can quickly become confusing and frustrating to then put everything together correctly in the field.  

First, Sorting the Parts For Each Cabinet

A typical nested based job consists of hundreds of parts representing perhaps dozens of cabinets, all intertwined into a series of nests.  Your first task is to separate the parts into individual cabinets.

This is normally done by placing labels on each part. Each label has a text statement with the cabinet name. Simply read the name and sort the cabinets by those names - sounds easy, right?

Not So Easy

While this sounds simple, it actually takes quite some time. You must read each label on the stacks of parts you are sorting to find the matching names for each cabinet (this can be a problem if your worker(s) don't read or speak English). This reading also takes time and parts sometimes have similar names so mistakes can be pretty easy to make.

The Solution

Time is money, and Thermwood has the solution to save you both in the form of our Patented Assembly Marks and Color Coded Labels.

Color Coded Labels Speed Up Sorting Time

Thermwood’s approach prints a color bar on each label with a different color for each cabinet. (put the red parts with the red parts and the green parts with the green parts, etc.). This simple idea allows you to sort cabinets two to three times faster. This offers a significant productivity improvement. 

Bar Codes for Remaking Scrapped Parts

Each label also has a unique bar code that can be scanned to remake any damaged part(s) easily and quickly.

Assembly Marks Speed Up Assembly Time 

Thermwood's Patented Assembly Marks are a significant productivity improvement when it comes to actually putting the cabinets together. Simple cabinets are not all that difficult to assemble, but as cabinet designs become more complex, with fixed partitions, shelves or other features, determining exactly how to assemble the parts can become difficult.

Generally you must create and print assembly drawings, and sometimes even with these drawings, the process of sorting out the structure can take significant time.

How Assembly Marks Work

Thermwood’s approach machines unique assembly marks into each joint to define which parts mate together. These marks are hidden once the parts are assembled.

Non-Skilled Workers Can Easily Assemble Cabinets

Assembly drawings aren’t needed and in fact, totally non-skilled workers can easily and quickly assemble even the most complex cabinets.

One shop owner asked his cleanup man to assemble a cabinet as a test. This totally unskilled “cabinetmaker” assembled the cabinet quickly and accurately with no drawings or instructions. For most jobs this represents a significant productivity improvement that could rival the machining process itself. 

The Bottom Line

Thermwood's approach can save you significant time and money through the use of Assembly Marks and Color Coded Labels to improve your accurancy and productivity when sorting and assembling your cabinets out in the field.