What is powder bed melting?

In laser beam melting, a component is built up layer by layer from metal powder (grain diameter approx. 15 µm to 55 µm): 1. a laser beam partially melts the top layer of a powder bed, creating the contour of the component. The material solidifies again after melting and forms a solid layer. 2. the base plate is lowered by one layer thickness (approx. 30 µm to 50 µm) and powder is applied again. 3. the contour is re-melted, and the powder grains of the new layer bond with the solidified underlying layer to form a dense component. This is repeated until the component is completely built up. At the end, it is surrounded by unused powder. The powder is removed, sieved and reused. This process is used for particularly fine structures and complicated components that would be impossible to produce using other technologies. However, the production time is longer compared to conventional processes.

Our materials

APPLICATION AREAS

PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING

In plastic injection molding, cooling is the longest step in the process. This is also the decisive step for the final quality of the injected parts.

Conformal cooling can target hotspots, reduce deformation and shorten cycle times.

Learn more

am-test-tube
voestalpine-hpdc

DIE CASTING

To optimize the die casting process, the scrap rate and cycle time can be reduced and service life extended.

Additive manufacturing and near-contour cooling are another element to address increasing the quality of cast parts (pore formation), cracking or even shortening the cycle time.

Learn more

OIL & GAS / MARITIME / MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

We support our customers by advising them to select the right material for the right application. We can also help you redesign parts to meet the requirements of your application. We use software and advanced technology to support the manufacturing process, from initial design to functional parts.

upstream-boehler-welding

Contact

Link

Ms. Anna Mad
Business Development Manager
3D Printing, Coating & Components
T +43 664 615 6016

anna.mad@voestalpine.com

Contact us for more information

Please use a browser that is not outdated.

You are using an outdated web browser.

Errors may occur when using the website.