Metal 3D printing, also referred to as additive manufacturing, is the process of generating three-dimensional metal objects by accumulating material layer by layer. It is a sweeping technology that has overhauled the manufacturing industry. Unlike old subtractive manufacturing methods, such as milling and casting, which involve abolishing material from a larger piece, metal 3D printing builds up a solid object from scratch. This allows for greater design freedom, more efficient use of materials, and the ability to create complex geometries that would be impossible to manufacture using traditional methods. In this blog, we will take a closer look at how metal 3D printing works and its various applications.
Types of metal 3D printing
There are several different types of metal 3D printing technologies, each with its own advantages and limitations. In the powder bed fusion method, a thin layer of metal powder is spread across a build platform. A high-powered laser or electron beam then selectively melts the powder, fusing it together to create a solid layer. The process is repeated layer by layer until the final object is complete. The directed energy deposition method involves feeding a metal wire or powder into a nozzle, which then melts the material using a laser or electron beam. The melted material is deposited onto the build platform, where it solidifies to form the object. This process is repeated until the object is complete. In binder jetting, a liquid binder is selectively deposited onto a layer of metal powder, bonding it together to create a solid layer. The process is repeated layer by layer until the final object is complete. The object is then placed in a furnace, where the binder is burned off and the metal particles fuse together.
How metal 3D printing works
Metal 3D printing commences by uploading a digital design file to a 3D printer, which divides the design into thin layers. The printer proceeds to create the object by following the instructions provided in the design file, one layer at a time. The methodology employed to build the object is contingent upon the kind of metal 3D printing technology in use. For instance, during powder bed fusion, a thin layer of metal powder is spread over the build platform. Afterwards, a high-powered laser or electron beam selectively melts the powder, fusing it together to form a solid layer. This process is repeated, layer by layer, until the final object is formed.
While there are scores of firms that offer laser technology for metal 3D printing, Dynotech strikes out as one of the unrivalled in the industry. With a strong cornerstone on research and development, Dynotech everlastingly pushes the boundaries of what is possible with metal 3D printing. Their innovative technologies, such as their patented Multi-Laser System, allow for faster printing times and more efficient use of materials. Additionally, Dynotech’s commitment to customer service and support ensures that their clients receive the training and guidance needed to get the most out of their equipment. Overall, if you are looking for a company that offers cutting-edge laser technology for metal 3D printing, Dynotech is definitely worth considering.