What Is Direct Energy Deposition?

Direct energy deposition (DED) is a form of additive manufacturing (AM) that uses a powder or metal wire with the energy source to add material or fuse material onto an existing part or to create a new part. Direct energy deposition is faster than other methods of additive manufacturing and is extremely accurate.

 It comes in three processes:

• Arc-directed energy deposition (robotic arm process)
• Laser-directed energy deposition (laser beam process)
• Electron beam-directed energy deposition (electron beam process)

The 3 Types of Direct Energy Deposition

1. Arc Directed Energy Deposition

This type of directed energy deposition is an EWI specialty that is more dynamic than other additive manufacturing processes. Arc-directed energy deposition is beneficial for large builds, and there is the potential to use existing arc-welding robots and power supplies.

2. Laser Directed Energy Deposition

While laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is better for small to medium-sized components with high detail and internal features, laser-directed energy deposition (LDED) combines a material feed system to place the powder onto the exact spot where the laser will melt the material.

This 3D printing method can be easily scaled to extremely large components along with high build rate speeds when compared to conventional LPBF systems.

3. Electron Beam Directed Energy Deposition

Electron beam-directed energy deposition (EB-DED) enables the extremely fast manufacturing of large parts, which gives it an advantage over other types of additive manufacturing. Companies in industries such as heavy machinery, construction, mining, and aerospace have applied this process to make large, low-volume parts.

DED Additive Manufacturing Capabilities for Any Situation

Whether you’re looking to improve your existing DED processes or implement new technology within your workflow, EWI can help.

Our manufacturing technology experts will work with your team to identify, develop, and implement new technology.

Call us at 614.688.5152 or fill out a contact form.