Openness Drives Innovation in Metal Additive Manufacturing

Oqton’s MeltControl enabled by open APIs

JANUARY 21, 2026 | Reading time: 3 min

Oqton, a member of the EOS Developer Network (EDN), recently introduced MeltControl: a simulation-driven exposure strategy built using the EOS Toolpath API. It’s an exposure strategy developed by a 3rd party for EOS systems, marking a milestone for openness and the EDN.

EOS Developer Network

Your starting point to build the future of digital manufacturing

The EOS Developer Network (EDN) is EOS’s partner program for software developers and industrial users building applications based on open EOS APIs. It enables seamless integration across the digital AM workflow - from data preparation and machine management to quality, reporting, and IT systems such as MES, CAD, and ERP. With comprehensive API documentation, virtual test systems, and expert support, EDN accelerates the development of scalable, integrated additive manufacturing solutions.

What Is MeltControl from Oqton?

MeltControl is a new innovative exposure strategy in metal AM developed by Oqton. By combining physics-based process simulation with advanced scan path optimization, it adapts each scan vector to local thermal and geometric conditions - enabled by full vector access through the EOS Toolpath API. For manufacturers, this means greater design freedom and predictable results. MeltControl improves downskin quality, reduces material usage and post-processing, and replaces trial-and-error tuning with simulation-driven control - all without adding build time.

Key Benefits:

Ultra-low overhang angles without compromising mechanical properties
Fewer supports result is less material waste and post-processing efforts
Superior downskin surfaces via physics-based micro waiting times
No increase in build time despite improved part quality
Together, these advantages show how simulation and open APIs redefine LPBF performance.

A Milestone for the EOS Developer Network (EDN)

With early access to the EOS Toolpath API and support from EOS experts, Oqton designed, validated, and launched MeltControl - proving how third-party developers can create custom process strategies for EOS machines.

Why Openness Matters

The EOS Toolpath API empowers customers and software partners with the freedom to create customized exposure strategies - enabling flexible processes, highly customizable, and tailored to application-specific requirements. By developing customized or even unique exposure strategies, companies can not only optimize performance but also differentiate themselves from competitors and gain a decisive competitive advantage. MeltControl from Oqton is a prime example of how openness accelerates innovation across the AM ecosystem.

Empowering the AM Industry with Openness and Data Transparency

MeltControl demonstrates openness in the AM industry and reflects EOS’s commitment to driving accessible high-performance metal 3D printing. By enabling open processes and easy access to machine data, EOS is setting a new standard for transparency and flexibility in additive manufacturing. With the EOS Toolpath API and the EOS Developer Network (EDN), EOS enables manufacturers and partners to push boundaries.