An agreement seeks to optimize the surface finish of an aluminum alloy for 3D printing
The additive manufacturing company AHEAD and the surface finishing specialist AMT have joined forces through a new memorandum of understanding. Their main objective is to develop and refine methods to treat the surface of components made with the Aheadd CP1 aluminum alloy, a material highlighted in binder jetting 3D printing. 🏭
Focus on the PostPro SF system
The core of this collaboration lies in adapting AMT's automated chemical finishing technology, known as PostPro SF, to work optimally with Aheadd CP1 aluminum. This process aims to effectively remove residual printing powder and smooth surface roughness, all while keeping the valuable mechanical properties and precise dimensions of the parts intact.
Key process objectives:- Completely remove adhered powder after printing.
- Achieve a smoother and more uniform surface.
- Preserve the material's high thermal conductivity and strength.
- Avoid altering the part's dimensional tolerances.
Sometimes, the path for a 3D printed part to literally shine involves submerging it in chemicals and gently shaking it, an industrial spa that not all metals can afford.
Potential impact on industrial applications
Achieving a superior surface finish on this 3D printed aluminum could transform its utility. The resulting parts would be more viable candidates for direct use in end products in demanding sectors, where performance and aesthetics are crucial.
Sectors that could benefit:- Automotive: For components that require heat dissipation and good appearance.
- Aerospace: Where reduced weight and reliability are paramount.
- Electronics: For housings or heat sinks with specific thermal needs.
Practical advantages of the advancement
This development promises to reduce or even eliminate the need for post-print machining of parts, saving time and costs. By enabling components to meet aesthetic and functional requirements from the start, it streamlines the path from digital design to the final ready-to-use part. This is a significant step toward establishing metal additive manufacturing as a real alternative for direct production. ⚙️