Scientists at Hiroshima University have developed a groundbreaking technique for 3D printing with tungsten carbide-cobalt (WC–Co), one of the hardest engineering materials. This innovative process has made it possible to overcome the challenges posed by the material’s toughness, which has traditionally made additive manufacturing difficult.
Utilizing a method known as "hot-wire irradiation," the researchers softening the material without fully melting it, which allows for the creation of complex shapes without compromising the integrity of the material. This technique not only reduces waste compared to conventional manufacturing processes but also retains the impressive hardness of over 1400 HV, just below that of sapphire and diamond.
The approach speaks to the potential for this method to be applied beyond WC–Co, expanding its usefulness in the manufacturing sector. The team, led by Keita Marumoto, is currently working on refining the process to mitigate cracking issues and to facilitate the creation of even more intricate designs.
With printing metals being a significantly more complicated task than printing with plastics due to the extreme temperatures and complex thermal cycles required, this new method represents a milestone in material science and engineering.
For more about the research, check out the full details from Hiroshima University.