New method for metal processing using 3D printing technology

New 3D printing method enables mass production of metal products with desired properties.

This method is the product of joint research by many groups of experts from different organizations, such as Cambridge University (UK), Nanyang Technological University (Singapore), Paul Scherrer Institute (Switzerland), Finnish Technical Research Center, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organization...

The new technique allows for structural changes to metal alloys during 3D printing, fine-tuning their properties without resorting to the traditional heat forging method that has been used for thousands of years. The research results have been officially published in the journal Nature Communications.

Modern 3D printing technology has a number of advantages over other manufacturing methods. It allows for the creation of complex shapes and uses much less material than traditional manufacturing methods. However, it also has certain disadvantages.

“One of the main problems is the high production costs due to the need to refine the product after production,” said Dr Matteo Seita from the Cambridge University research team.

Since the Bronze Age, metal products have been created by heating and forging. This method allows the metal to be shaped into the desired shape and gives it the necessary properties, such as ductility or strength.

However, current 3D printing techniques do not allow for similar control of properties, thus requiring continued technical intervention after printing is complete.

Seita and colleagues have developed a new method of 3D printing metal processing that allows control over the internal structure of the material as it is melted with a laser. The method uses standard laser 3D printing technology, but with a slight modification to the process.

“We discovered that the laser acts as a ‘micro-hammer’, helping to harden the metal during the 3D printing process,” said Dr. Matteo Seita.

Products made from metal using the new 3D printing method have properties equivalent to steel produced by traditional methods both in theory and in practical testing.

“We believe this method will reduce the cost of metal 3D printing, improve sustainability and revolutionize the metallurgical industry,” the experts added.

(according to Securitylab)

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