Materials
The additive manufacturing of advanced alloys is a major research topic of the SEAMAC project. Experiments are conducted with the printing of various pre-alloyed powders, including scalmalloy, zirconia-modified aluminium alloys and steels. To produce complex alloys, such as high entropy alloys, a method called insitu alloying is used, in which elemental powders are mixed together.
3D printing
Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) is an additive manufacturing (AM) process that uses a high-powered laser to melt metal powder and fuse it layer by layer onto a substrate to create a three-dimensional object. The process is often used to repair or add material to existing components as well as to create new complex metal parts. LMD offers advantages such as precise control over deposition, less material waste and the ability to work with a wide range of metals and alloys. The process is used in the aerospace, automotive and tooling industries, among others.
Six Q/A on 3D printing of metals
Plasma electro Polishing (PeP)
Plasma electropolishing is a surface treatment process that combines elements of both electropolishing and plasma technology. It involves the use of a plasma discharge to enhance the process. The high-energy particles in the plasma promote the dissolution of metal ions from the surface of the metal object. This helps to smooth out imperfections, remove roughness and improve the overall surface quality. The plasma also helps to remove impurities and oxides from the surface.