12 This modular design is simple and versatile, since it consists on adapting the solution to an existing nozzle. The module is nowa- days implemented in the DED facilities of the University of the Basque Country and has been used for real applications with gas atomized Ti6Al4V powder particles, obtaining satisfactory oxida- tion free results [6]. Laser Beam Machining (LBM) As it has been previously presented, the DED process offers the versatility to perform different types of tasks in additive manufac- turing, obtaining results that improve the current capabilities of, for example, the hot stamping process or allowing the manufactu- ring of complex geometries using highly reactive materials such as the above mentioned titanium alloys. Although this application of lasers is widely known, there is also another application in which lasers show great potential: Laser Beam Machining (LBM) [7]. In this process, the energy of the lasers is used in pulsed mode. As a result, the peak of energy that can be achieved is much higher than the maximum energy reached with a continuous mode of operation. Thus, the high amount of energy given by the pulsed laser is used to vaporize the material and, therefore, subtract it. By repeating this process, and with the correct overlap between pulses, various types of geometries can be achieved with the aid of a kinematic platform. One example of application is the engraving of chip-breakers in ceramic inserts. The brittleness of these inserts makes the manu- facturing of those chip-breakers a very difficult task. Using LBM, these geometries can be obtained, which improve the machining conditions and the lifespan of the insert. The following figure shows the results in this field achieved by the High Performance Manufacturing group. RESEARCH AND INNOVATION Figure 2. Hot stamping thermal simulation. In conclusion, the flexibility of the DED process regarding the reduction of geometrical constraints in manufacturing combined with the development of suitable strategies has the potential for improving the hot stamping process. In fact, it has been proven to enhance the process performance and to increase the tool life of the high-cost dies employed in the process. DED of highly reactive materials. State of the art Materials with high affinity to oxygen and other atmospheric gases may require the implementation of an additional protective environment. Titanium alloys, widely employed in the aerospace industry, are probably the most remarkable example. In order to reduce the possibility of oxidation, vacuum or inert gas chambers are employed. These kinds of solutions entail dimensional res- trictions when manufacturing medium or big sized parts due to the limited size of the chambers. In addition, higher amounts of inert gas are needed as the size of the chambers increases; the- refore, the cost of the process raises too. Hence, special nozzles equipped with additional protective modules represent a suitable alternative. Design and Manufacturing of a protective module A protective module has been developed by means of CFD mode- lling. This module provides the nozzle with an auxiliary inert gas stream offering a local protective atmosphere, which allows oxida- tion free processing. Moreover, as it can be installed directly in the nozzle, no vacuum or inert gas chamber is required, which cons- titutes a more flexible solution than closed chambers, eliminating the dimensional restrictions and reducing the amount of required inert gas. Figure 3. (a) CAD model of the modified nozzle; (b) Manufactured module. Figure 4. Chip-breakers manufactured by LBM.