Directed Energy Material Extrusion - DEMEX

Directed Energy Material Extrusion - DEMEX is powered by LEAM Technologies

LEAM Technologies is a start-up that was spun off from the Technical University of Munich. They offer an industrial edge-based solution to extend large-format 3D printers with temperature monitoring and active control. This makes it possible to process technically demanding plastics such as PEEK or similar with large-format 3D printers in the first place. The technology is mainly used in the energy, automotive, aerospace and general mechanical engineering sectors.

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Why Improve layer adhesion in large format AM?

DEMEX solves the problem of insufficient layer adhesion in large format Additive Manufacturing. The system uses light generated by high-power LEDs to heat the substrate locally. The light is focused to a spot in front of the nozzle. The optimum temperature for layer bonding is ensured at the interface without risking stability. Due to visible, broad-spectrum light, DEMEX avoids laser safety regulations.
Parts printed with DEMEX show isotropic properties for tensile strength as the weak interface between layers is eliminated. The technology can be used with any thermoplastic polymer and is relevant for demanding applications, where PEEK, PEI, PESU, or other high-performance polymers are processed.
DEMEX is retrofittable on any new or existing large format 3D printer and integrates using standard communication interfaces.
LEAMs product on Siemens Industrial Edge expands value share from Siemens Numerical Control to Edge Computing and quality assurance software in future LFAM machines.

Spot of focused light generated by DEMEX

Benefits

Obtain isotropic part properties
Print on cold surfaces
Monitor temperatures during print and store for later analysis

Featured Capabilities

Seamless integration in any new or existing machine

Whether you’re setting up new LFAM machines or upgrading existing equipment, our modular solutions use open communication standards, allowing fast adaptation to different configurations and broad compatibility with machine controllers, with a easy to use, stand alone HMI.

Active temperature regulation of the printed part

DEMEX is designed with full ring sensor and emitter arrays, providing 360° thermal coverage around the nozzle - without the need for any moving parts. This enables precise temperature measurement and correction through active heating in every direction.

Usable with high-performance polymers such as PEEK, PEI, etc.

We use high-intensity LED-based emitters - offering the perfect balance of power, responsiveness, and safety. This allows the system to adapt to the entire range of materials, from commodity plastics to high-performance polymers.

Explore Resources and Related Products

Additional Information and Resources

Exploring Large-Scale Additive Manufacturing

DEMEX info material available on LEAM website

Prerequisites

A large format 3D printer for the DEMEX to be installed on

The DEMEX system hardware