The Additive Manufacturing Users Group reports that BASF scientists have found a way to use the additive technique of extrusion to create 100% metal parts. This could be an interesting breakthrough, as most additive processes that use metal materials to make parts are powder-based and use an additive sintering or melting process. Another technique uses an additive blown powder process.
The research began with a filament comprising 80% steel powder (by weight) and 20% plastic binder extruded to create a 3D printed metal/plastic composite part. By subsequently adding a step using a standard industrial debinding and sintering process, the result was a 100% steel part.
One benefit of this process is that it could be less expensive than using selective laser melting with metal powders.
BASF
www.basf.us
Mark says
Nice so when are the 3-d printers going on sale
Kai Sudau says
Dear Mark,
you can use any FFF printer to print our filament 2.85 or 1.75mm with a nozzle temp of about 235°C, the filament is for sale. You can start printing right now. Please contact me if you want to know more details.
Best Regards
Kai
Matthew says
Where exactly can I purchase this material?
Leslie Langnau says
BASF
Brianna says
Would it be possible to make your own metal filament from scrap metal I have at home?
Leslie Langnau says
Probably not. You need to powderize the scrap metal. Then you would need to include some kind of binders or other materials to make it flow properly, it you’re going to turn it into a filament. Overall, it might not work in your printer. Most materials are specially made to fit the flow, temperature and other needs of a 3D printer. It would be easier, and probably cheaper to buy such filament.
Andres Bartlett says
Where could this be purchased in Australia? How much would it cost? Does it work with any 3D printer?
Dan says
Where do you buy this? Do they give the information for post processing and shrinkage from printer to sintered parts.
Leslie Langnau says
As the post said, it’s from BASF. That’s where you would buy it.
Danny West says
Hello,
Can anyone direct me to vendors to do the sintering step?
Danny