Authors:
Matteo Zanon (Kymera International | Ecka Granules Germany, Germany),
Armin Müller (Kymera International | Ecka Granules Germany, Germany),
Joe Croteau (Kymera International | SCM Metal Products, USA),
Nicholas Murphy (Kymera International | SCM Metal Products, USA),
Joseph Workman (Kymera International | SCM Metal Products, USA)
Abstract:
Metal binder-jetting (MBJ) technology involves the additive build-up of “green parts” via localized deposition of liquid binder on a powder bed. Green parts are subsequently depowdered, debinded and sintered to near full density. A successful sintering becomes then the critical step for the development of both density and material properties. Aluminum-based alloys, while commonplace for laser-based technologies, have been hitherto neglected in the binder-based approach, due to their notorious oxidation sensitivity and possibly to their less visible presence in the traditional PM industry, compared to ferrous materials. By taking advantage of its multi-decade experience in mass production of PM aluminum grades, Kymera International is adapting several grades of free-sintering aluminum alloys, including those from the 6000- and other series, for use in binder jet additive manufacturing. Progress updates will be provided on the printing and sintering process and material properties after sintering and heat treatment.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59499/WP225367982