Metal Printing Techniques explores the transformative world of metal 3D printing, also known as metal additive manufacturing. This book delves into essential processes like powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition, and binder jetting, highlighting their capabilities and limitations. Understanding the relationships between processing, structure, and resulting properties is key to unlocking the technology's full potential in creating customized, high-performance metal components. For example, controlling process parameters enables the creation of parts with tailored mechanical, thermal, and chemical characteristics for industries like aerospace and medicine.
The book takes a practical approach, offering actionable information for engineers and researchers in materials science and mechanical engineering. It begins with a foundational overview of metal additive manufacturing, then systematically dissects each major process, explaining the underlying physics and engineering principles. Techniques like Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and Electron Beam Melting (EBM) are explored, alongside directed energy deposition processes. The later chapters cover binder jetting, detailing binder application methods and sintering processes.
Throughout the book, microstructural analyses, mechanical testing results, and computational simulations demonstrate the effects of process parameters on the final part quality. By focusing on established processes with demonstrated industrial applications, Metal Printing Techniques provides a comprehensive guide for optimizing existing processes, developing new materials, and designing innovative products.
