The Revolution of Beam Shaping for Additive Manufacturing with Alex Kingsbury of nLIGHT

Additive manufacturing (AM) is revolutionizing industries like medicine, aerospace, and defense. To meet these sectors' stringent demands for minimal waste, precise welds, and efficient energy use, innovative solutions are essential. 

To explore the diverse benefits and challenges of laser usage in additive manufacturing, Host Fabian Alefeld welcomes Alex Kingsbury, AM Market Development Manager at nLIGHT Inc. They discuss cutting-edge advancements in laser technology, productivity gains realized with beam-shaping techniques and the challenges of specializing in innovative beam-shaping laser technologies. 

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS. 

Key Takeaways: 

[6:04] Australian AM adoption flourished after early medical-related successes. 

[10:11] Technological opportunities drove Alex’s decision to work at nLIGHT. 

[14:32] How is nLIGHT distinct from other laser manufacturers? 

[17:45] Advantages of laser-powered additively manufactured complex parts. 

[37:50] Challenges of specializing in breakthrough laser technologies. 

[47:57] Innovative future functionality of lasers in additive manufacturing.