Volkmann vDryer removes moisture from metal AM powder
Volkmann USA, Bristol, Pennsylvania, has highlighted its vDryer vacuum drying module for conditioning metal Additive Manufacturing powders that have absorbed moisture. The machine is designed to return powder to a defined moisture level before it is delivered to Additive Manufacturing equipment.
Installed upstream of one or more AM machines, the vDryer is available as an optional module for Volkmann’s vLoader 250 powder conveyor. It uses vacuum drying without heat to remove absorbed moisture, aiming to improve powder flowability and reduce moisture-related effects that could affect part quality or increase post-processing requirements.
The vDryer uses Volkmann’s electric vacuum pump technology to remove moisture without exposing temperature-sensitive powders to elevated temperatures. According to the company, conditioning the powder can help reduce agglomeration, caking, particle adhesion and other moisture-related issues during material handling.
The machine is compatible with Additive Manufacturing equipment from a range of manufacturers and is suitable for powders including stainless steel, aluminium, titanium, nickel-chromium alloys, copper, cobalt, tungsten, silver, iron and alumina.
The vDryer can be integrated into Volkmann’s automated closed-loop powder handling systems or supplied as a standalone unit for applications requiring dedicated powder drying.
