The latest release of 3DXpert 26.2 introduces a dedicated Channel Design application, making it easier than ever to design complex internal channels and piping for additive manufacturing. Developed specifically for AM workflows, this new capability helps engineers create intricate internal flow paths for applications such as manifolds and heat exchangers with greater speed and flexibility.
Channel Design Basic Controls
Faster, More Efficient Channel Design
Channel Design simplifies the creation of internal channels by allowing users to quickly define section profiles and channel paths. What previously took hours of manual modeling can now be completed in minutes, particularly for manifold-type parts.
The application also supports flexible local and global path editing, making it easy to accommodate design changes without rebuilding the entire model.
Built for Better Manufacturability
Several built-in features help improve print success and reduce production time, including:
- Collision avoidance to prevent channels from intersecting surrounding geometry or printed volumes.
- Support-friendly channel shapes that reduce or eliminate internal supports.
- Smooth transitions between channel elements to improve flow performance and print quality.
Flexible Design Control
Engineers can customize channel geometry using controls for:
- Section plane orientation (normal or parallel)
- Shape morphing between different section profiles
- Area changes along the channel path
- Local smoothness near each section
Fixed and Shaped Sections Controls
Each section can be moved, rotated, scaled, and duplicated while the channel path automatically updates, making design iterations faster and more efficient.
Channels/Piping for Complex Heat Exchangers
For complex additive manufacturing applications such as manifolds and heat exchangers, the new Channel Design application helps shorten design cycles while enabling geometries that are difficult or impossible to achieve with conventional CAD workflows.
Complex Heat Exchanger Manifold
Discover what’s possible with 3DXpert 26.2. Request a demo to see how the new Channel Design application simplifies the design of manifolds, heat exchangers, and other complex AM components.