3D printing of titanium materials has always been the key to the high-end titanium material field. Mastering 3D printing technology can be said to master the core technology of future industrial development. This issue has become the most wonderful fantasy in the scientific community so far. How can our dreams come true? How far are we from our dreams?
Titanium alloy is one of the most widely used metal 3D printing materials. In engineering applications at ambient temperatures, titanium alloys typically exhibit a tensile elongation of 10% -25%, reflecting good material reliability. Although greater elongation (ductility) is advantageous for easier molding and has a priority in certain applications, increasing strength within this elongation range is often preferred for withstanding mechanical loads. In traditional and additive manufacturing techniques for processing metal materials, it has always been necessary to consider the balance between strength and ductility.
According to foreign media reports, this year British steel giants have teamed up with American titanium companies to collaborate on sustainable development of titanium materials, including 3D printing projects. Global companies have begun to explore 3D printing related research, and the joint development of 3D printing by multiple companies has become a global trend.
In addition, RMIT University has researched a novel honeycomb structure that has been enhanced in strength and structural efficiency to a new level through 3D printing technology and design. The design adopts a hollow tubular honeycomb structure, which includes a thin strip. The combination of two elements produces strength and characteristics that have never been seen before. The team achieved a new structure by fusing metal powder layers together using a high-power beam, and the printed structure has a strength 50% higher than the strongest alloy used in aerospace, WE54. This new structure effectively reduces the pressure bearing capacity of weak points in the honeycomb structure by half.
It can be observed that the global industrial focus is shifting towards 3D printing. Therefore, as a company, do we need to follow the trend and whether 3D printing can become the next investment opportunity? The first thing we need to assess is the status of the enterprise. 3D printing is definitely used for high-end titanium materials in aerospace, navigation, space and other fields. The individual price is expensive and the profit margin is large, but is it really that easy to achieve? In fact, it is not the case. Without the leadership of universities, academicians, and other institutions, the investment in project development and research is large and the results are slow, which may drag down a company's financial flow and become a true devouring beast.
The author suggests that companies need to be cautious about the layout of 3D printing. This is not a project that will have a return on investment, but a high-tech project dedicated to exploring the field of human materials, which requires strong support. The popularization of titanium 3D printing is not realistic in the short term, and companies developing in cutting-edge fields are more recommended.
Company: Baoji Dynamic Trading Co., Ltd
Country:China
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