en.Wedoany.com Reported - German metal powder handling equipment manufacturer Volkmann GmbH has developed the semi-automated closed powder handling system vPort in collaboration with HP. Officially released in April of this year, the system is specifically designed for the HP Metal Jet S100 series binder jet 3D printers, and is now available in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

The vPort integrates multiple operations into a single workstation. Users dock the print unit and process parts through a glove box. Excess powder is removed via a vacuum nozzle, followed by fine cleaning with compressed air. The print unit is then emptied and cleaned before refilling with powder from an integrated hopper. Recovered powder is sieved in the same process and prepared for reuse. Volkmann states that the process is efficient and fully enclosed, preventing contamination and ensuring safe handling of metal powders.

Volkmann positions the vPort as an entry-level solution for metal binder jetting users, offering lower costs compared to fully automated systems. The semi-automated operation and closed integration design help users balance operational efficiency with capital investment. The product is available for purchase directly from Volkmann, with technical support, service, and spare parts provided.

Powder removal and handling remain a critical bottleneck in metal additive manufacturing. New enclosed powder removal systems from companies such as Solukon highlight the industry's ongoing pursuit of closed-loop post-processing workflows.

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