Directed Energy Deposition (DED) is an advanced additive manufacturing (AM) technology that fabricates or repairs metal components by precisely melting feedstock material, typically in the form of metal wire or powder, using a concentrated energy source such as a laser, electron beam, or electric arc. The molten material is deposited layer by layer onto a substrate or existing workpiece, where it solidifies to form complex geometries or refurbish worn parts.

DED systems typically consist of a multi-axis robotic arm equipped with a print head, where the energy source is centrally positioned and the feedstock is directed toward the melt pool. For powder-based systems, inert gas is often used to transport the particles through concentric nozzles, while wire-based systems feed filament at an angle to the focal point of the energy beam.

This process is functionally similar to robotic welding or material extrusion but is distinct in its ability to produce fully dense metal parts or repair high-value components such as turbine blades, military equipment, and aerospace structures. Due to its high deposition rates and flexibility in build direction, DED is especially well-suited for producing large-scale parts, with size limitations dictated mainly by the reach of the robotic arm.

DED also supports hybrid manufacturing, often combining with CNC milling to refine printed geometries. However, significant post-processing or machining is usually required to achieve final dimensional accuracy and surface finish.

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