Renishaw LIBERTAS Technology Reduces Supports and Improves Surface Finish in Metal AM
Renishaw’s LIBERTAS technology addresses two of the most persistent challenges in metal AM: poor downskin surface finish and the need for support structures. While traditional supports manage heat and distortion, they also increase material usage, extend build times, and require costly post-processing. Unlike conventional workflows, LIBERTAS technology dynamically adjusts scan parameters across the part geometries. This enables engineers to print complex components with smoother downskin surfaces and greatly reduces or eliminates the need for supports.
LIBERTAS technology enables greater control of laser parameters and scan paths during the build process, allowing engineers to better manage thermal behavior, minimize downskin roughness, and lower material usage. By reducing the need for traditional support structures, the software aims to help manufacturers increase output while reducing cost per part.
Users of LIBERTAS technology have greater freedom to manufacture complex geometries that have traditionally required extensive supports, often in inaccessible locations, driving additional post-processing time and material waste. The technology is an enabler for components that were previously unviable, either technically or financially, to produce via AM, and were too challenging to manufacture with CNC machinery, where lack of tool access is a major limitation.
LIBERTAS technology is designed specifically for Renishaw’s RenAM 500 series metal additive systems and targets manufacturers looking to push the boundaries of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Access to the technology is via a cost-effective upgrade module within Renishaw’s QuantAM build preparation software, requiring no costly hardware upgrades and allowing one license to work across multiple RenAM 500 systems. The software delivers benefits across a range of industries, including medical, aerospace and defense, and consumer electronics.
Applications include high-precision dental frameworks, complex aerospace components such as nozzle guide vanes and blisks, and intricate consumer products like wearable devices. By reducing supports and improving downskin surface finish, LIBERTAS technology restores the ability to design for function, not manufacturing limitations.
Renishaw’s RenAM 500 series features a versatile range of solutions that cater to every stage of the additive manufacturing journey, from initial prototyping to full-scale production. Machines are equipped with high-powered lasers that access the whole powder bed, intelligent gas flow for superior part quality, and flexible powder handling options. With build volumes of 250 mm × 250 mm × 350 mm, the RenAM 500 systems are configurable with one (500S), two (500D), or four (500Q) high-power 500-W lasers.
Visitors to IMTS 2026 looking to maximize AM’s productivity, improve downskin surface finish, and reduce waste without the need for costly hardware upgrades should visit Renishaw’s additive manufacturing exhibit at Booth #338469.
For more information: www.renishaw.com
