The latest news about Digital Metal
A 3D printer developed by Digital Metal has successfully been installed at the French CETIM (Centre Technique des Industries Mécaniques/Technical Center for the Mechanical Industry), a non-profit establishment supporting French industry to adapt new technologies. The printer, A DM P2000, is part of a license agreement that was signed last year.
It is equipped with an upgraded build box, an upgraded ink supply system as well as an upgraded powder handling system.
– It is a covered printer, reducing the noise level dramatically, says Hans Kimblad, technical sales manager at Digital Metal. The required safety footprint is also smaller compared to the open printer concept.
Montford, a new Swiss watch maker, uses Digital Metal technology for 3D printing its dials.
At Digital Metal, we are convinced of the endless possibilities with metal powder technology. Our latest customer, Swiss watch maker Montfort, is proof of what can be done. Our 3D-printing technique allowed them the complete freedom of design they were looking for. The beautiful watches are inspired by the Swiss Alps, with dials produced by Digital Metal.
Höganäs extends its 3D printing capability by introducing high performance 17-4 PH stainless steel for Digital Metal printing technology.
17-4 PH enables production of components with high strength and hardness.
The material is a hardening grade exhibiting considerably higher strength compared to the more commonly used austenitic 316L.
It also provides improved corrosion resistance compared to 400 series ferritic stainless steels.
Material data – typical values
| Ultimate strength | Yield strength (0,2%) | Elongation | Hardness | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPa | MPa | % | HRB | HRC | |
| 316L | 520 | 180 | 50 | 55 | |
| 17-4PH | 1050 | 900 | 4 | 25 | |
Chemical composition (%)
| Fe | Cr | Ni | Mo | Cu | Nb+Ta | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 316L | Bal | 16-18 | 10-14 | 2-3 | ||
| 17-4PH | Bal | 15.5-17.5 | 3-5 | 3-5 | 0.15-0.45 |