Phillips Corp. and Laserline Combine Technologies for Advanced Hybrid Laser-Powder System!

Phillips Corp. has entered into a strategic collaboration with Laserline, a leading innovator in high-powered diode laser systems based in Mülheim-Kärlich, Germany. This partnership has resulted in the creation of the Phillips Additive Hybrid Laser-Powder System, which seamlessly integrates Laserline’s cutting-edge laser metal powder deposition capabilities with the reliability and precision of Haas CNC vertical machining centers.

Phillips Corp. is renowned for enhancing its customers’ additive manufacturing (AM) and machining competencies. By collaborating with Laserline, Phillips aims to deliver a hybrid solution that combines high-volume, high-resolution additive manufacturing with precise subtractive machining. This integration allows manufacturers to create parts with complex geometries using 4- and 5-axis configurations, making the system ideal for applications such as cladding, feature addition, prototyping, production parts, and welding repairs. Additionally, the system offers versatility, precision, and efficiency, making it suitable not only for manufacturing but also for research and educational settings.

The Phillips Additive Hybrid Laser-Powder System boasts several advanced features designed to enhance performance and versatility. The system utilizes diode lasers, which are ideal for precise and energy-efficient material processing. With a range of laser power options, different wavelengths, beam spot sizes, and powder nozzle types, the system can be customized to meet specific application needs. The diode lasers’ homogeneous top-hat intensity distribution ensures uniform energy transfer, resulting in high-quality, high-resolution as-printed parts with minimal thermal distortion.

A key advantage of the system is its material versatility, enabled by a dual powder feeder that allows for the blending of different materials. This capability supports functionally graded and custom alloying applications, which is particularly beneficial for research and development. Manufacturers can explore new material properties and applications or combine different materials within a single component to reduce costs or increase wear life.

The system also features a high-performance deposition head with a narrow design, providing access for depositing metal in part cavities and crevices. With laser power options up to 10 kW, the system supports high deposition rates and can process materials with extremely high melting points, such as tungsten and carbides. This makes it well-suited for die and mold repair applications, where precision and durability are paramount.

Seamless integration is another highlight of the Phillips Additive Hybrid Laser-Powder System. The Phillips Hybrid team integrates Laserline’s diode laser optics and deposition head with both new and existing Haas vertical milling machines, including TM, VF, and UMC models. This allows users to enhance their manufacturing capabilities without requiring a complete overhaul of their existing infrastructure, providing a flexible and cost-effective upgrade path.

Brian Kristaponis, General Manager of the Hybrid Division at Phillips Corp., stated, “Our partnership with Laserline brings together two innovative forces in the manufacturing industry. This high-powered laser powder deposition hybrid solution represents a significant advancement, allowing manufacturers to unlock new levels of flexibility and efficiency in their production processes.” Similarly, Oleg Raykis, Laserline Sales Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “Laserline is excited to collaborate with Phillips Corp., a partner that shares our dedication to pushing the boundaries of manufacturing innovation. This collaboration combines our strengths to deliver a transformative hybrid manufacturing solution. It’s a testament to our shared vision of enhancing production capabilities and setting new industry standards.”

The Phillips Additive Hybrid Laser-Powder System expands Phillips Corp.’s existing lineup of additive-subtractive solutions, which already includes Laser-Wire and Wire Arc Hybrid Systems. Available for both new installations and retrofits, the system offers a versatile solution to meet the diverse needs of modern manufacturing environments. Phillips Corp. provides comprehensive integration and support, with a team of expert application engineers guiding customers through every step of the process, from initial setup to ongoing operation. Additionally, a two-week training package is offered at the customer’s site, ensuring that users can fully utilize the combined additive and subtractive capabilities of their hybrid machine.

This collaboration between Phillips Corp. and Laserline underscores a shared commitment to advancing manufacturing technology and fostering continuous improvement in production processes. By combining their respective strengths, the two companies aim to deliver innovative solutions that enhance production efficiency, flexibility, and precision, setting new benchmarks in the manufacturing industry.