3D printing technology’s variety
Additive manufacturing technology like 3D printing can use varying metal cutting processes to satisfy different product needs. Listed below are three printing technologies that differ in complexity and procedures:
- Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS): It uses a 3D printer to dissect the metal layer by layer by using a metal powder. It uses a temperature between 1510°C and 1600°C to fuse metal powder to produce functional prototypes under low-volume production.
- Selective Laser Melting (SLM): Unlike DMLS, it uses fully melted powder metal, which requires a much longer cooling process. This technology is mostly for producing products that need pure metal, such as Titanium.
- Lost-Wax Casting: Using a 3D model initially printed with wax, it uses Additive Manufacturing technologies to produce a metal mould from the wax base, making it an excellent solution for intricate designs in small objects.
3D printing technology’s material options
The base material you’ll use for printing will vary, depending on its purpose and metallic properties. Similar to the variety of printing methods, numerous raw metal materials will work better in particular applications. Listed below are three forms of metallic 3D printing materials.
- Aluminium: Its excellent mechanical properties make it resistant to high voltages, making it a durable and lightweight option for machine parts.
- Stainless steel 316L: With strong resistance against corrosion with high ductility, it’s a great choice for automotive, aerospace and medical tools and equipment.
- Precious metals: Sterling silver, brass and bronze are the usual options for lost-wax casting printing. Since they’re easy to mould in different forms and geometries, they can produce various accessories for establishments in the jewellery industry.
3D printing technology’s impact on the automotive and jewellery sectors
Although 3D metal printing can benefit numerous industries, it is mostly applied in small- to medium-scale projects in the automotive and jewellery sectors. Many establishments are recognising 3D printing technologies as a valuable investment in efficient prototyping and duplication of different components, thus making the shift. Since it only requires a base 3D model through digital means, the product can continue straight to the development and printing production line.
3D printing is versatile enough to produce identical and durable components for vehicles while also making intricate accessories from a master model. Thanks to 3D printing, automotive industries and jewellery makers can speed up their production processes to optimise their revenue streams.
Conclusion
As a business owner, it’s necessary to always be on the lookout for the latest technological advancements popping up in the market. Unfortunately, the more niche a technological breakthrough is, the less likely that you’ll hear about it from general sources. This is why you must update your info databases to connect with suppliers and industry experts to benefit your business’s growth. Getting the news straight from the source is an excellent way to gauge your potential options for vendors of modern tools you can use for your company.
At 3D Quick Printing, we provide quality 3D printing services in the UK for business owners that want to optimise their production lines. Send your 3D model with us today to receive a 3D printing quote!
