Process Innovations: Characteristics of New Hybrid Additive & Substractive Machine Tool Technology

Chicago, Illinois - This topic is important to this audience because a new hybrid approach to machining -- technology that applies both advanced additive and subtractive methodologies – is a viable, practical solution to certain applications in aerospace. Hudson's presentation will cover what lies beyond the traditional powder bed systems for both polymer and metal applications. It will provide the answer as to whether a hybrid machining system – combining additive and subtractive capabilities – has a place in manufacturing. It will describe how components made of expensive alloys can be manufactured more cost effectively by using additive and subtractive methodologies on one machine tool. His talk will also detail how it is possible to decrease the cost of manufacture of complex components by reducing the material input on traditional forgings and castings and adding desired features via a hybrid additive/subtractive process. Hudson will also define how part life can be extended by adding material to a component that already exists and how an adaptive additive and subtractive approach can increase the life of aging and worn components.

About the author
Robb Hudson has spent his entire adult life in the machine tool industry. Hudson grew up in his family’s machine tool distributorship in Indiana.   Since the sale of that company in 2002, Hudson has been very fortunate to have gained a depth of experience in both traditional and non-traditional machining applications in the aerospace, energy, medical device, automotive, and electronics industries across North America and Europe.  His current role with Mitsui Seiki is focused on Key Account Business Development.  In addition, Hudson is co-directing product development for Mitsui Seiki’s soon to be released Additive / Subtractive Machine Platform debuting in 2016.