GCAMS to qualify a new set of steel powders in their BMPD feedstocks used for MIM and 3D printing
A set of gas-atomized powders from Mitsubishi Steel Mfg. Co., Ltd. (316L, 17-4PH and D11) with exceptionally high and reproducible tap density values has been recently evaluated and subsequently qualified for the preparation of feedstocks based on the Hong Kong-based GCAMSs Medpimould and AmbientPrint technology, respectively. These powders are especially considered to be a suitable entry-level raw material for manufacturers using the BMPD-based printers. The powder solids loading obtained with these powders turns out consistently to be at 70+ vol% for the wax-base and at 60+ vol% for the solvent-base feedstocks, which means a low shrinkage on sintering.
According to the company’s CEO Dr. Robert Pompe, the BMPD (Bound Material Powder Deposition) technology, involving direct nozzle extrusion, is getting more traction, as the companies in the AM/3D printing field intensify development of real-world value chains for additive manufactured series products.
“The starting material cost adds significantly to the total cost of AM-based production. Our business is to sell licenses, at a low cost, comparable to one, two-month salary level of a qualified R&D worker,” said Dr Pompe. “To make it possible for many companies to turn the potential benefits of AM into a successful industrial or end user product. Part manufacturers can now use these and other MIM/CIM powders on the market and convert them into printable feedstocks.”
These licenses are specifically designed for and sold with the 3D printers manufactured by Metallic3D, Inc. of Stuart, Fla, USA, complete packages are marketed by 3D Dragon Printing Technology Co., Ltd., Hong Kong, in southeast Asia, China and other dedicated markets.
