Abstract: An apparatus (10) for producing a three-dimensional work piece (46) by irradiating layers of a raw material powder with electromagnetic or particle radiation comprises a process chamber (16) accommodating a carrier (12) and a powder application device (14) for applying a layer of raw material powder onto the carrier (12). The apparatus (10) further comprises an irradiation unit (26) for selectively irradiating the layer of raw material powder with electromagnetic or particle radiation in accordance with a geometry of a corresponding layer of the work piece (18) to be produced. An absorption device (50) which is adapted to absorb heat radiation emitted upon selectively irradiating the layer of raw material powder with electromagnetic or particle radiation is provided in the process chamber (16) and/or in the irradiation unit (26) at such a position that it is capable of absorbing radiation occurring in an interior of the process chamber (16) and/or in an interior of the irraditation unit (26).