Gefertec, Linde Partner on Additive 3DMP Research
Gefertec and Linde have partnered with two other companies to research Gefertec’s 3DMP 3D printing process and ultimately determine what gas and oxygen percentage needs to be used to optimize high-production of larger titanium alloy parts.
Gefertec’s 3DMP printing process involves welding the wire material layer by layer to create a finished part, which can then be further machined using conventional milling.
Gefertec’s 3DMP technology will be tested by the joint research of four partners.
The goal of the research collaboration surrounding the 3DMP welding technology for 3D printing is to enable the high-speed production of Ti6AI4V large parts.
Gefertec and Linde AG have started a joint research project to investigate the influence of the process gas and the oxygen percentage on Gefertec’s 3DMP 3D printing process. Along with the two companies, MT Aerospace AG is joining the partnership and will perform the mechanical tests of the produced parts. The actual 3D printing will take place at the additive manufacturing laboratory of Fraunhofer IGCV—the fourth cooperation partner, and where Gefertec will install the 3D printing system. According to the collaboration, the final goal of the project is the high-speed production of larger parts made of the titanium alloy Ti6Al4V, which meets the quality requirements of the aerospace industry.
The Gefertec 3DMP printing technology uses electric arc welding and wire material to create a near-net-shape part formed by welding layer by layer. After 3D printing the part can be further machined by conventional milling. For larger parts, this technology is said to be faster and more cost-effective compared to other methods based on powder as original material. The result of the arc welding process depends heavily on various parameters—especially from the process gas.
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