RenAM 500S

The RenAM 500S is an SLM 3D printer from Renishaw with a 250 x 250 x 350 mm build volume.

Specifications

Renishaw RenAM 500S: Technical Specifications

Build Volume: 250 × 250 × 350 mm. Rectangular build chamber with full laser access across the entire field.

Laser: Single 500 W ytterbium fiber laser with whole-bed scan access: no restricted peripheral zones characteristic of older systems.

Optics/Scanner: Single galvo system with F-theta lens and dynamic focus. Spot diameter ~80–100 µm.

Layer Thickness: 20–100 µm; standard for medical applications: 30–40 µm.

Build Platform: No dedicated preheating above ambient temperature in standard configuration.

Chamber/Shielding Gas: Argon or nitrogen.

Calibration

RenAM 500S Calibration

Platform Leveling: Precise alignment of the build plate within < 30 µm is a prerequisite for a uniform first layer and consistent adhesion. Performed cold with adjustable fasteners.

Laser Calibration: Periodic position, focus, and power verification of the laser beam via built-in QuantAM procedures. Renishaw recommends intervals after every 200 operating hours or after any optical component change.

Common defects

Typical Defects on RenAM 500S

Porosity: Primary LPBF defect: VED optimisation is critical. Gas pores at low VED; keyhole pores at excessive VED. Verifying O₂ < 100 ppm and powder moisture are mandatory preventive measures.

Solidification Cracking: In sensitive alloys (Inconel 718, H13): optimise scan strategy with island rotation; consider local preheating options.

What it is used for

RenAM 500S Use Cases

Materials and Process Research: Benchmark machine in universities and R&D centres for validating new powder alloys and building parameter space maps: the cascading gas flow ensures exceptional repeatability.

Medical Implants: Ti grade 23 orthopaedic components and CoCrMo dental prosthetics with density > 99.9% and ISO 13485 traceability.