Pneumatic vacuum conveyor automatically transfers metal powders to 3D printers

Volkmann USA has introduced the vLoader pneumatic vacuum conveyor. Installed directly atop a 3D printer, it automatically transfers metal powders from a bulk storage container or other powder source through piping or hose that discharges into the printer’s supply hopper.

The system ensures a continuous flow of powder to one or more printers for consistent, unattended production without interruption, the company states. It is a sealed system with a closed-loop approach that eliminates the potential for worker exposure to toxic metal materials and safeguards sensitive materials from contamination from exposure to the work environment.