Tender for the Supply and Installation of an Open Source Electron Beam Selective Melting 3D Printer or the University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham invites tenders for supply of an open source electron beam selective melting (EBSM) 3D printing machine. The machine will be a part of an investment by the University of Birmingham to facilitate/support the development of components for the UK's nuclear, space, and defence sectors. In this context, the machine will be used to develop new applications for the technology in collaboration with the end-users and carry out feasibility studies and pilot projects to address the specific requirements of these sectors. Therefore, it will be required as part of the project to build strong partnerships with the technology providers and define a joint co-funded R&D programme for the benefits of the UK's economy.

The machine should be capable of 3D printing refractory and structural metals and alloys using focused electron beam. The machine should allow full control on the process parameters (power/heat input, electron beam parameters, scanning strategies, materials dosing, etc...). There should be very limited restrictions on the types of materials (in powder form) that can be utilised using this platform.

The system should be fully equipped with a process control interface, while being open source with respect to the process parameters. The build chamber should permit the usage of limited quantities of powders, allowing quick optimisation runs to performed and ease of cleaning following the completion of builds.

The University requests quotations for a rent-to-purchase plan with ownership transferring at the end of the rental term upon payment of a nominal fee, alongside a quotation for purchasing outright.

This project may be funded by the University of Birmingham or;