11-19-2019: GE Additive (now Colibrium Additive) unveiled the Arcam EBM Spectra L

It was the largest EBM 3D printer on the market at the time

On November 19, 2019, during the Formnext trade show, GE Additive introduced the Arcam EBM Spectra L, an advanced metal 3D printing system utilizing electron beam technology. The new machine was designed to meet the growing demand for higher productivity and the ability to produce larger titanium parts. Alongside the printer, GE Additive also launched the Arcam EBM PRS 30, an automated powder recovery station, and the Arcam EBM Build Performance Analyzer software.

The Arcam EBM Spectra L stood out for its unprecedented build volume within Arcam's EBM portfolio—a cylindrical workspace with a diameter of 350 mm and a height of 430 mm. This represented nearly double the capacity of its predecessor, the Spectra H, and a 13% increase compared to the Q20plus model. Combined with a new 4.5 kW electron beam, build speed increased by 20%, allowing full-scale builds to be completed 4.5 hours faster than with the Q20plus.

A key feature of this launch was the introduction of an integrated system architecture. Enhanced beam diagnostics, automated calibration, and improved powder layer control resulted in more predictable mechanical properties for manufactured components, regardless of whether they featured thin or massive geometries. At launch, the 3D printer supported materials such as Ti6Al4V (Grade 5 and 23 titanium alloy), with plans to include pure copper in future updates.

A vital complement to the system was the Arcam EBM PRS 30, an automated powder recovery station that minimized operator exposure to metal powder. This solution improved material management efficiency, a critical aspect for serial production using EBM technology.

Along with the launch of the Spectra L, GE Additive also introduced the Arcam EBM Build Performance Analyzer software. This advanced tool provided comprehensive machine and process health analysis. Leveraging intelligent algorithms, users could conduct root cause analyses, monitor system performance, and receive actionable recommendations for corrective measures.

On April 29, 2024 GE Additive rebranded as Colibrium Additive, which was a result of major changes in GE itself. As part of the brand transition Arcam EBM (and Concept Laser) legacy brand was retired.

Source: www.pressreleasefinder.com