Aluminum components can be manufactured using different methods, and there are several traditional techniques, but apart from that, 3D printing is gaining significance these days.
The components of all metals can be manufactured using the 3D printing technique, and it is applicable in all industries.
Aluminum is a material that is quite valuable because of its exceptional properties and its ability to be applicable for almost all applications, magnificently serving every industry.
This guide features everything you look forward to knowing about 3D printing aluminum material, from the technologies to their applications and advantages. Let’s read this guide and familiarize ourselves with the 3D printing details you might look forward to.
Concept of 3D Printed
The 3D printing process is an additive process of manufacturing that helps manufacture products and components based on different metals using a printing methodology and a digital file. It is a suitable method of printing objects using lesser material and caters to complex shapes and geometry compared to the other traditional methods.
Process of 3D Printing
3D printing uses the material as liquid or powder, and the printer carries out the layering process rather than using a block of material. It is a faster process, requires low costs for setup, and has lesser wastage.
It is also a suitable method for manufacturing prototype samples so that their products can be approved, and hence many industries use it.
What is Aluminum 3D printed?
Multiple metals may be used for 3D printing. However, aluminum is one of the most common kinds of material used because it is suitable for the 3D printing process and multiple applications.
One of the most significant advantages of 3D printing aluminum is that it allows the manufacturing of complex parts and internal channels, which are not achievable by other methods. Hence aluminum components used in different applications may flexibly be manufactured through this process.
How Is 3D Printing Carried Out on Aluminum?
Using 3D printing technology, aluminum can be printed and shaped in a 3D object. The process starts with creating a CAD file, which contains the component’s design. This file is fed into the printer, melting the aluminum into a powdered form to achieve the required design.
The output component is light in weight and very strong; therefore, it can be used for many purposes; moreover, this process is rapid for mass production.
Technologies in Aluminum 3D Printed
Many technologies can be opted for when it comes to the concept of 3D printing aluminum, and some of these technologies are as follows:
Direct Metal Laser Sintering
In the process of direct metal laser sintering, aluminum in the powdered form is used, and it is a very fine powder that helps achieve the required geometry of the 3D objects.
The baseplate is first layered with aluminum power, and using a high-powered laser, the material melts and forms layers one after the other.
It gives a precise and better output; however, when the component’s height is lesser, it takes more time because the layers are smaller. However, 3D printing machines need trained professionals to carry out the task of operating the printer.
Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Laser powder bed fusion is a 3D printing technique for manufacturing aluminum components. The aluminum powder is first melted and then deposited as a layer. This process uses layering the material one after the other by simultaneously preparing the material and creating the part.
Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion
The electron beam powder fusion process for 3D printed aluminum uses electrons, not the laser. The technique offers a slow powder cooling and creates a significantly smaller powder structure for the printing princess.
Powder Bed Fusion Process
In the powder bed fusion process, the powder aluminum is rolled by the 3D printer, which spreads the layer of it. This process keeps repeating to make more layers one after the other by melting and spreading the powder using a roller.
3D Printing Process with Aluminum
The process of 3D printing using an aluminum can be done using the steps suggested below:
- The first step is choosing the suitable aluminum material which suits your projects; anodized aluminum is the best option for a better finish and painted for an affordable output.
- After choosing the type of aluminum, you have to start preparing the printer; it should be clean and free from dust.
- After this, you can feed your design and start the printing process; printing at a low speed and temperature gives you a better result.
Advantages of Choosing aluminum 3D Printing Process
Aluminum has multiple properties that are impressive enough to ensure high-quality product manufacturing. It is therefore used in many applications. However, when it comes to considering the advantages of aluminum 3D printing, these are discussed below:
Flexible Designing
3D printing for aluminum metal comes with a lot of flexibility. There is room for many complexities as 3D printing allows freedom to design almost everything compared to traditional techniques.
Improved Performance
The mechanical properties of the 3D printed component are improved compared to the traditional aluminum components manufactured using different processes, which helps in optimal results of applications for which they are used.
Quick Turnaround Time
Aluminum parts manufactured with 3D printed technology offer quick manufacturing, and as compared to traditional methods, it is around 70 percent faster and hence offers quick production.
Low-Cost Manufacturing
3D printing is a cost-effective manufacturing technique used for aluminum component manufacturing, it doesn’t require any additional tooling, so the process is simple and less expensive.
Suitable for Environment
The traditional production process usually ends up leaving ecological footprints behind. However, in the case of 3D printing, it is a technology that minimizes environmental impact. On top of it, aluminum is a recyclable material that protects the environment.
After going through the guide above, you must have understood every detail about the process of 3D printing for aluminum components. Conversely, choosing the right manufacturer is also very important. At Sunrise Metal, you can get high-quality and quick aluminum output based on 3D printing, so contact us today for your projects.