Donaldson BOFA’s innovative AM 400 filtration technology, which makes the exchange of filters in metal additive manufacturing processes safer, faster, and better for productivity, is being expanded in the US to cover more voltages. Notably, the AM 400 features a large filter design, enhancing filter life, reducing maintenance frequency, and improving operational efficiency.
The 230 V version of the portable fume extraction system released earlier this year in Europe, is now available, joining the previously released 110 V model. The AM 400 uses patented technology to enable filters that capture particulate in inert atmosphere additive manufacturing printers to be exchanged securely on site. This is particularly valuable for metal additive manufacturing processes, such as aluminum and titanium printing, where pyrophoric reactions can occur.
The filtration technology enables additive manufacturers to exchange filters without risking oxygen entering the inert chamber environment, which could lead to a thermal event.
With Donaldson BOFA’s AM 400, filters are contained within a separate housing with a robust seal, enabling exchange to be completed quickly and safely without isolating the additive manufacturing equipment.
Katrina Clemens, General Manager, Americas at Donaldson BOFA, commented: “Not only does the AM 400 design make it safer for operatives to exchange filters in additive manufacturing, but it can also result in significant productivity gains by reducing production downtime. This is particularly important for companies involved in additive manufacturing high-value metal components and products.”
The AM 400 is hermetically sealed to keep inert gas in and oxygen out, while automatic flow control technology allows users to pre-set the correct airflow rates for specific applications. This generates lower noise levels and helps to protect higher-value HEPA filters. When filters are approaching full, an alert enables the exchange process to be undertaken in a timely manner.
The 230 V model operates within an airflow/pressure range of 88 cfm min – 188 cfm max, while the onboard Intelligent Operating System (iQ) provides real-time data on extraction system performance, including individual filter status monitoring.
