Puris Inc says that it has successfully produced the largest, complex, 3D-printed titanium part for commercial use.
The part was printed using ExOnebinder-jetting technology and was processed to 100% density.
Measuring an estimated 19’ x 19’ x 11’ inches with a cross-section thickness of 0.375 inch, the part weighs approximately 31 lb.
‘There is a lot of activity in this arena and larger parts have been printed, but we believe this is the largest complex titanium part to be printed to date,’ said Puris CEO Craig Kirsch. ‘It is significant that the part was processed to full density and printed safely using affordable, available powder.’
The part was produced for an aerospace customer at Puris’ Bruceton Mills plant. The use of binder-jetting technology allowed Puris to print the part at room temperature, eliminating residual stress buildup and chemical-property and microstructure changes, the company says.
‘We are actively working on a number of development programs with other customers interested in bringing large, 3D printed parts into the additive manufacturing mainstream,’ said Kirsch. ‘Size is currently constrained only by the printer box itself, which presents advancement opportunities for ExOne to develop larger direct-printing machines.’
This story uses material from Puris, with editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.