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What is Metal 3D Printing

Metal 3D printing, a technique in additive manufacturing, creates metal components by bonding metal particles in successive layers. This method is frequently selected over CNC machining or metal casting because it can yield parts that possess the robustness and longevity of metal while benefiting from the design flexibility offered by 3D printing. It allows for the production of intricate designs, such as lattices and topology-optimized structures, which cannot be achieved with conventional CNC machining.

Advantages of Metal 3D Printing

Metal 3D printing offers the benefit of creating intricate, high-performance metal components suitable for various applications. The parts produced through this process are isotropic, meaning they possess uniform strength in all directions, and exhibit the excellent mechanical properties of metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, tool steel, and stainless steel-bronze composites.

Additionally, metal 3D printing can merge several assembly components into a single part, often leading to a more robust structure by minimizing the failure points associated with threads and inserts.

With this technology, CAD file data is sent straight to the printer, making the production of parts typically more cost-effective and quicker than machining metal parts. Unlike machined parts, which incur expenses for tooling setup and require more extended machining times, most metal 3D printed parts can be completed in under a week.

Selecting Between DMLS and Binder Jet Metal

Our metal 3D printing services offer direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) and metal binder jetting options. Both processes are ideal for producing metal prototypes, tooling, and production parts as needed. However, they employ distinct metals and fusion techniques, leading to variations in mechanical properties, costs, and production times for the finished parts.

Introduction to Direct Metal Laser Sintering

Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), also called selective laser melting (SLM), employs a laser to fuse layers of fine metallic powder. This method is beneficial for creating fully dense components suitable for fluid transfer applications. DMLS works with materials such as aluminum AlSi10Mg, stainless steel, maraging steel, tool steel, cobalt chrome, and Inconel. Though it is costlier than binder jetting, it offers superior mechanical properties for high-precision applications.

Introduction to Binder Jet 3D Printing

Metal binder jetting involves a multi-step process where a binding agent is selectively applied to a metal powder bed layer by layer, creating a 3D shape. This shape is then cured and either sintered in a furnace or infiltrated with bronze. Parts with overhanging features are supported by loose powder, often eliminating the need for post-processing.

Binder jetting is favored for its affordability and speed, making it suitable for high-volume, cost-effective production. The parts produced have a density of around 95% or greater, making them ideal for functional prototypes or end-use applications. Additionally, metal binder jetting is popular among artists and hobbyists due to its ability to produce intricate designs at a lower cost compared to DMLS or machining. However, binder jet parts can shrink, so engineers should apply design-for-manufacturing principles, such as scaling the CAD model by 1-2% and enlarging holes, to compensate.

Material Properties of Direct Metal Laser Sintering(DMLS)

Auminum AlSi10Mg
Stainless Steel 17-4
Stainless Steel 316/l

Material Properties of Metal Binder Jetting

420 stainless infiltrated with bronze
Six finishes available

What is Metal 3D Printing

Advantages of Metal 3D Printing

Selecting Between DMLS and Binder Jet Metal

Introduction to Direct Metal Laser Sintering

Introduction to Binder Jet 3D Printing

Material Properties of Direct Metal Laser Sintering(DMLS)

Material Properties of Metal Binder Jetting

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