CADmore Metal has unveiled an innovative 3D printing process known as cold metal fusion (CMF), which aims to revolutionize the production of metal components, particularly titanium, in North America. This new method promises not only enhanced strength but also greater cost-effectiveness and speed in creating 3D printed metal parts.
Historically, titanium has been challenging to 3D print due to its reactivity at high temperatures, leading to issues such as cracking and brittleness during the cooling process. CMF claims to address these problems by employing a unique combination of metal powder and polymer binding agents, which are layered and fused to produce solid structures. This proprietary technology allows for a faster, more scalable approach to 3D printing compared to traditional methods, promising a significant reduction in both time and cost for manufacturers.
CADmore Metal’s CEO, John Carrington, noted that the technology has garnered interest from key industries such as energy, defense, and aerospace. For instance, a notable defense contractor has recently transitioned from conventional 3D printing to CMF, anticipating substantial savings and reductions in production times.
The CMF process begins with a standard industrial 3D printer that lays down a mixture of metal powder and a plastic binder, followed by a laser that fuses each layer together. Once the parts are printed, they undergo a series of treatments, including soaking in a solvent to remove the binder and furnace processing to densify the metal. The end result is components that are robust enough for further machining operations like grinding or drilling, if necessary.
The technology is licensed from Headmade Materials, a German company that specializes in developing materials specifically for enhanced 3D printing applications. CADmore serves as the exclusive distributor in North America, and they offer comprehensive support and training for companies looking to integrate CMF into their production processes.
With the global 3D printing market expected to see significant growth, CADmore Metal’s introduction of CMF is well-timed. They have recently opened North America’s first CMF application center in Columbia, South Carolina, with plans for further expansion to accommodate increased demand for material processing and equipment.
For more information on cold metal fusion technology, visit CADmore Metal.