Kazakhstan Receives First Industrial Metal 3D Printer

Kazakhstan’s educational and manufacturing landscapes are witnessing a sea change with the arrival of the HBD 350, the first industrial metal 3D printer in Kazakhstan. The new machine is located at the University of Arizona’s microcampus at Kozybayev University. This step, a collaboration between California-based company Top 3D Shop and the university, marks a significant leap in research and development capabilities, potentially transforming various industry sectors.

HBD 350 – A New LPBF for KZ

Utilizing laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology, the HBD 350 crafts detailed metal parts with exceptional precision. Boasting dual 500W fiber lasers, the printer can handle large components made from diverse metals like aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. Its efficiency and large build volume cater to a broad spectrum of industries, from aerospace to healthcare, driving innovation in product development and manufacturing processes.

“The HBD-350 stands as the manufacturer’s flagship product, distinguished by its remarkable efficiency, large build volume, and high precision,” said Egor Driagin, Co-Founder of Top 3D Shop.

“For instance, we have 3D printed several funnels using molybdenum-based powders and examined them with a metrology 3D scanner. The outcomes demonstrate that the printed model deviates only by 10-50 microns from the original 3D model, which is an excellent result for the university’s applications.”

One of the printer’s remarkable achievements includes the redesign of a nuclear reactor heat exchanger. The redesigned component is significantly smaller and lighter, leading to substantial reductions in production costs and enhanced energy efficiency.

Top 3D Shop

Top 3D Shop is a global additive manufacturing value-added reseller and systems integrator that has successfully supplied additive manufacturing, 3D scanning and automation solutions to various sectors, including education, aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and dentistry. Their role was instrumental in the provision of the printer to the university. Their contributions extended beyond supplying the HBD 350, as they also offered comprehensive training and assistance, leading to the university achieving proficiency in using this technology. The joint efforts of Top 3D Shop, HBD engineers, and the university set the stage for future initiatives in enhancing additive manufacturing education and boosting the development of the local manufacturing industry.

Educational Impact

The introduction of the HBD 350 at Kozybayev University brings multifaceted benefits to education, extending from practical learning to fostering innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. The printer allows students to transition from theoretical concepts to hands-on experiences, enhancing their understanding and skills. It opens doors to experimenting with complex designs and materials, nurturing creativity and problem-solving abilities essential for future engineers and designers.

Familiarity with advanced technologies like LPBF 3D printing equips students for modern industry demands, giving them a competitive edge in the job market. This technological integration elevates Kozybayev University’s academic standing globally, making its graduates more attractive in the international job arena.

“Top 3D Shop shared their expertise on merging academic pursuits with commercial interests to effectively broaden the use of these advanced technologies in the local manufacturing sector,” said Savinkin Vitaly Vladimirovich, Head of Chair, Department of Transport and Mechanical Engineering, at Kozybayev University.

“Together, we plan to partner on creating forums for further dialogue and learning, including additive manufacturing conferences and symposiums, fostering international research collaborations, and the exchange of practical experience through international work programs.”

The printer’s arrival at the university is set to benefit local manufacturing companies in Kazakhstan. Through the university’s industry connections, local businesses can now access advanced 3D printing technology, making cutting-edge manufacturing more accessible and cost-effective.

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