Arcam EBM Q20

The Arcam EBM Q20 is an EBM 3D printer from Arcam with a 350 x 350 x 380 mm build volume.

Specifications

Technical Specifications: Arcam EBM Q20

Technology and Energy Source

The Arcam EBM Q20 uses Electron Beam Melting: a process in which a focused electron beam at an accelerating voltage of 60 kV and power up to ~3 kW melts titanium or intermetallic powder layer by layer in a full vacuum. The vacuum environment is a fundamental difference from laser L-PBF systems: the absence of oxygen and nitrogen fully prevents oxidation of reactive alloys such as Ti-6Al-4V and TiAl.

Optics and Scanning System.

Calibration

Calibration: Arcam EBM Q20

• Electron Beam Calibration: Run the `Beam Calibration` routine from EBM Control Software before every new job or after a service intervention. The beam burns a matrix of spots onto a test plate at 60 kV; results are analysed automatically. Expect spots ≤ 0.2 mm with no astigmatic distortion. Tip: if asymmetric spots are observed, check the Q-gun focusing coil before the next build.

2.

Common defects

Common Defects: Arcam EBM Q20

Porosity (gas / lack-of-fusion)

Symptom: internal voids visible by CT or metallographic cross-section. Cause: insufficient beam power (low current or high speed) or trapped gas from compromised vacuum. Fix: reduce scan speed or increase current; check vacuum and helium flow. Optimise parameters via Design of Experiments on coupons before serial production.

Smoke Event

Symptom: sudden ejection of powder from the bed, build abort.

What it is used for

Applications and Limitations, Arcam EBM Q20

Best suited for:

• Aerospace turbine blades from Ti-6Al-4V and TiAl, the machine was designed for this geometry; the hot chamber prevents residual stresses and TiAl support is critical for low-pressure turbine stages.