Optomec and Siemens Collaborate to Automate Additive Manufacturing for Laser Cladding in Production Environments!

Optomec, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has teamed up with Siemens to deliver a groundbreaking solution for laser cladding in production environments, aimed at simplifying maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations. This collaboration integrates Optomec’s CS 558 Additive Manufacturing machine with Siemens’ SINUMERIK ONE CNC system, providing a streamlined, automated system that improves productivity and reduces operational complexity.

Traditional laser cladding systems are often labor-intensive and require highly skilled operators. The joint solution, however, automates these tasks, reducing the need for manual intervention while increasing precision. The CS 558, equipped with Directed Energy Deposition (DED) technology, is capable of repairing complex metal components, including those made from reactive materials like titanium, by depositing material directly onto worn or damaged parts. This enhances component longevity, performance, and reliability.

The integration of Optomec’s Autoclad vision software with SINUMERIK ONE CNC ensures that each part receives a custom toolpath for optimal results. SINUMERIK ONE enhances the machine’s capability, offering high-speed processing, precision pathing, and smooth operation even in high-load scenarios. This digital native control system includes a digital twin, laying the groundwork for future-oriented production capabilities in manufacturing and MRO operations.

The solution is designed for industries such as aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, marine, medical, and semiconductor/electronics, where high-value metal repairs are critical. Optomec and Siemens aim to revolutionize the repair and maintenance of metal parts by offering a solution that simplifies the process, maximizes efficiency, and reduces return on investment (ROI) timelines for customers.

Robert Yusin, CEO of Optomec, commented, “This collaboration marks a paradigm shift in the industry, introducing a next-generation solution that maximizes efficiency while minimizing complexity in metal repairs.” Steve Vosmik, Head of Additive Manufacturing at Siemens, added, “Our partnership with Optomec sets a new benchmark in high-value metal repair, offering unprecedented precision and efficiency, and addressing key industry demands for the future.”