What is metal 3D printing?

Metal 3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that produces parts by fusing metal particles together layer by layer to form a metal part. It is often chosen as an alternative to CNC machining or metal casting because it can produce parts with the strength and durability of metal, while also taking advantage of the design freedom 3D printing offers. It can generate complex designs, including lattice and topology-generated structures, neither of which can be fabricated by traditional CNC machining.

The advantages of metal 3D printing

Metal 3D printing has advantages because it can produce high-performance, complex metal parts suitable for a variety of end environments. Metal 3D printed parts are isotropic, meaning they have uniform multi-directional strength and the superior mechanical properties of metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, tool steel and stainless steel-bronze composites.

3D metal printing can also be used to combine multiple assembly components into a single part. This generally results in a stronger structure by reducing the points of failure introduced by threads and inserts.

With metal 3D printing, CAD file information is sent directly to the printer, which means parts are often cheaper and faster than producing machined metal parts. Machined metal parts have overhead costs such as tool setup and longer machining times.

Application of metal 3D printing in various industries

Metal 3D printing can be used for rapid industrial machining, where metal 3D printing can be used for parts with complex curvatures and small thin-walled parts such as conformal fixtures, impressions, dies, and cutting inserts.

For other industries such as consumer products, robotics, aerospace and defense, metal 3D printing can be used to integrate fastening features, end effectors, and metal lattice structures. Because of their excellent durability and strength, metal 3D printed parts can be used for fully functional post-prototyping or end-use parts for any of the above-mentioned applications.