Renishaw, a leader in precision engineering and additive manufacturing, has announced the launch of its next-generation Build Processor (NxG BP), developed in collaboration with Materialise. This new software enhances integration between Materialise Magics and Renishaw’s RenAM metal additive manufacturing systems, combining flexibility with productivity in a streamlined workflow.
The introduction of NxG BP is a testament to Renishaw’s commitment to providing open, user-friendly workflows while ensuring top-tier performance. The processor allows direct export of job files from Magics to Renishaw machines using the QuantAM file format, eliminating manual file handling, reducing errors, and saving preparation time.
“We’ve worked closely with users to understand where the bottlenecks are in their AM workflows,” stated Ben Diaz, product manager at Renishaw. “NxG BP enables swim lane laser control, integrated inspector tools, implicit modelling support, and compatibility with the RenAM 500 series of machines. Ultimately, customers will have a more intuitive and efficient way to get from design to print.”
A key innovation is the Swim Lane feature, which distributes laser scanning across defined regions of the build platform. This prevents interference between lasers, manages overlap for full fusion, and enhances part quality and consistency while reducing build times. Integration with nTop implicit modelling workflows also facilitates handling complex geometries and preparing jobs more efficiently.
Karel Brans, Partnership Director at Materialise, commented, “The Renishaw NxG Build Processor represents exactly the kind of open, flexible approach the industry needs as metal AM moves into production at scale. By enabling direct integration between Magics and Renishaw systems, we’re removing the friction that slows down advanced users who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with metal 3D printing.”
For quality assurance, NxG BP incorporates an integrated Inspector tool for real-time verification of laser paths and job setup directly within the workflow. This data-driven approach allows users to identify and resolve potential issues before production begins. The processor is fully compatible with the entire RenAM machine range, extending benefits across Renishaw’s installed base.
“By renewing their Magics and Build Processor license directly through Renishaw, customers can also take advantage of cost savings compared with purchasing QuantAM and Magics separately from Renishaw and Materialise respectively. This ensures not only a more powerful workflow but also a more economical one,” added Diaz.
The NxG Build Processor is designed for advanced AM users managing various part types and requiring functionality beyond QuantAM alone. The combination of streamlined workflow, enhanced process control, and accelerated job preparation represents a significant step forward in achieving consistent, repeatable, and efficient metal AM production.
For more information about Renishaw’s software for laser powder bed fusion systems, including NxG Build Processor, please visit Renishaw’s website.
