High tech sight glasses for additive manufacturing applications ACI supplies components for Linde’s atomization test bench

High performance sight glasses for metal powder atomization and advanced process monitoring

As part of a forward looking innovation project, ACI Industriearmaturen GmbH has supplied high performance sight glasses for a newly developed atomization test bench at the Linde Technology Center in Unterschleißheim, Germany. The delivered components have been integrated into a test facility designed for the production and optimization of metal powders used in additive manufacturing.

The test system supports the further development of advanced 3D printing processes, including applications involving highly reflective metals such as copper. Reliable visual access to internal processes is essential in order to analyze and control critical parameters under realistic operating conditions.

Overview of supplied components

Sight glasses type ACI317
Six round sight glasses were supplied in accordance with DIN 28120. These components are designed for non pressurized applications and offer a large viewing diameter.

Technical specifications
• Nominal size DN 300
• Nominal pressure PN 0
• Maximum operating pressure 0.49 bar
• Maximum operating temperature 400 °C

Sight glasses type ACI318
Two sight glasses were supplied for applications with elevated internal pressure.

Technical specifications
• Nominal size DN 125
• Nominal pressure PN 2.5
• Maximum operating pressure 2.5 bar
• Maximum operating temperature 400 °C

Application and function

The installed sight glasses enable visual inspection of internal processes using high speed cameras and advanced optical measurement systems. They play a key role in monitoring and controlling the metal powder atomization process, contributing directly to process stability, quality and reproducibility.

Technology and collaboration

Linde has equipped the test facility with advanced gas technologies, including ADDvance Laser230 and the ADDvance O2 precision oxygen control system. These technologies support maximum quality standards in additive manufacturing and are also used in collaborative projects with partners such as ArianeGroup for the development of components for next generation heavy lift launch vehicles.

With this project, ACI once again demonstrates its expertise in providing reliable, high precision sight glass solutions for demanding research and industrial applications. From development projects to series applications, ACI supports customers with technical know how, precision manufacturing and certified quality.