Automated repair: Optomec and Siemens develop new solution for laser deposition welding

Optomec and Siemens have introduced a joint solution for laser cladding in production environments that utilizes additive manufacturing technologies. This integration of the Optomec CS 558 platform with the Siemens SINUMERIK ONE CNC system enables the automated repair and overhaul of high-quality metal components. The aim is to make the maintenance and repair process more efficient and reduce reliance on manual, time-consuming processes.

Laser cladding, which is often used in the aerospace, automotive and energy industries, is based on Directed Energy Deposition (DED) technology. This expands the repair possibilities by restoring complex components made of different materials on different substrates. Optomec’s Autoclad software is used to calculate an individual processing path for each component, which increases precision and minimizes manual post-processing. The process also allows the machining of reactive metals such as titanium in a controlled environment.

“Optomec and Siemens are introducing a transformative solution for the MRO of high value metals in production environments that is a paradigm shift for the industry,” said Robert Yusin, CEO of Optomec. “This is a next generation solution that maximizes efficiency, minimizes operational complexity and greatly reduces time to ROI for customers.”

The Siemens SINUMERIK ONE system complements this technology with powerful CNC functions that enable precise and fast machining of free-form surfaces. In addition, the digital twin system offers simulation-based production planning, which shortens production times and prevents errors.

“Our collaboration with Optomec represents a significant leap forward in industrial automation and additive manufacturing,” said Steve Vosmik, Head of Additive Manufacturing, US at Siemens. “By integrating SINUMERIK ONE with Optomec’s advanced CS 558 platform, we are delivering a solution that simplifies complex repair processes with unprecedented precision and efficiency. This not only addresses current industry demands but also sets a new benchmark for the future of high-value metal repair in sectors like aerospace and energy.”

Market researchers estimate the global laser cladding market to reach $561.3 million in 2023, with a projected annual growth rate of 9.3 percent through 2030. Given these growth rates, the collaboration between Optomec and Siemens positions itself as a forward-looking answer to the increasing need for efficient repair technologies in industries such as aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, and electronics. Steve Vosmik, Head of Additive Manufacturing at Siemens USA, emphasizes that the solution not only meets current requirements, but also sets new standards for the repair of high-quality metal parts.