Internal Cladding Head for Hybrid CNCs Enables Longer-Living Molds

Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies develops technological solutions that combine additive deposition, subtractive and inspection technologies, marrying the freedoms of additive manufacturing (AM) with the precision of CNC machining so that laser welding and finishing of molds be can achieved in the same setup. Introduction of a new internal cladding head called the Ambit Flex 22i makes these capabilities possible. Available as a retrofit for existing CNC machines or for direct integration into new machines, the cladding head system provides users improved access for the additive deposition head to access difficult-to-reach areas of the mold that need metal added.

The “i” in Ambit Flex 22i stands for internal because it enables deposition into corners, on vertical walls, and even inside of blind features. The system can seamlessly expand additive capabilities. It can also be automatically tool changed with standard metal deposition heads or cutting tools in seconds. This head has been optimized for reaching into areas less than 2" in diameter and can be ordered with different reach lengths to suit different mold and feature sizes.

“The new Ambit Flex 22i internal cladding head brings difficult-to-access areas into reach that were unreachable before,” Dr. Jason B. Jones, Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies, notes. “It equips moldmakers with another critical tool to make or modify molds for longer and more productive life cycles.”