Formnext 2025: Solukon showcases automated depowdering with robotics and ultrasound

Solukon is using Formnext 2025 (November 18–21, Frankfurt) to further automate post-processing in additive manufacturing. The highlight is a special version of the SFM-AT800-S that combines part transport and depowdering with robot-assisted finishing. Together with partners Grenzebach and Yaskawa, the equipment manufacturer demonstrates how previously manual steps can be integrated into a continuous, takt-capable workflow—from powder removal to reproducible surface treatment within a closed process cell.

The special variant targets large-volume metal parts from laser powder bed systems and addresses typical post-print bottlenecks: safe handling, controlled powder recovery, and reduced process-time variability. Automated part flow and robotic peripherals allow removal, rotation, vibration, and finishing steps to be programmed, increasing process security and minimizing operator exposure to fine metal powder. For operators with high part variability, the ability to control job-dependent sequences via recipes and document them for quality assurance is particularly relevant.

As a second system, Solukon will present the SFM-AT350-E, which cleans parts using ultrasound—especially gently and almost noiselessly. The system is designed for fragile structures and hidden cavities and, thanks to an adapted swivel arm, can handle parts up to 100 kilograms, including build platforms from flagship printers such as the EOS M 400 and Nikon SLM 500. The combination of mechanical motion, cavitation, and directed flows enables defined powder removal even in complex channels without stressing delicate geometries.

For its tenth anniversary, Solukon is also announcing a special activity at booth 12.0, D71. However, the technical focus remains on integrating post-processing into standardized, scalable process chains. For users transitioning AM parts into series production, predictable depowdering with documented quality is a key building block.