3D Printing with Aluminium

3D printing with aluminium is done through Selective Laser Melting (SLM). This technology melts 30-micron layers of aluminium into powder thanks to a 400 W laser. The difficulty in welding aluminium means that it is essential to have good knowledge about this printing technique and the material itself to guarantee the best quality and repeatability of the entire production process.

 

Additive manufacturing process with aluminium

To create quality prints with aluminium, it is essential to have good know-how of SLM technology and of the material. Factors such as layer thickness, the number and geometrics of the manufacture supports, and the printer parameterisation all play a key role.

Technical specifications of Aluminium

Types
  • AlSi10Mg
Features
  • Low density: 2.7 g/cm3. 01.
  • Tensile strength: 400 MPa 02.
  • Excellent electrical conductivity 03.
  • High heat conductivity 190 W/mK 04.
Benefits

The high mechanical properties per mass unit, combined with topologically optimised designs mean that this material can be used for extremely light designs. Reduced tooling costs of short-runs in aluminium casting or injection processes. High corrosion resistance, which can be increased when anodized.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

PRODUCT SPECIFICATION

Surface finish with 3D printing of aluminium parts.

Items printed with aluminium using SLM have some excellent properties. However, the roughness of their surface can be more than with other materials. This finish is suitable for most uses, but if you need another kind of finish, such as a polished finish, do not hesitate to get in touch with our team who will gladly address your specific needs.

Step by step process

1
3D File

– Send us your 3D file ready to print.
– If you do not have the file, send us the item and we will create the CAD file.
– If you need a design from zero, our designers will gladly prepare a quote for you.

2
3D Printing

– We will create the process file adapted to the technology and materials that will be used to produce your item.
– We prepare and condition the printer to guarantee optimum quality.

3
Cleaning and post processing

This step is key when meeting your requirements, and it is one that we are highly specialised in. The removal of the printing support structures, heat treatments, and surface finishes (blasting, polishing, tooling) are some of the most common post processes.

DISCOVER THE TECHNOLOGY USED IN THE PROCESS TECNOLOGÍAS INVOLUCRADAS EN EL PROCESO

Uses of printing with aluminium

One of the most common uses of aluminium printed parts is the manufacturing of short-runs or prototypes to streamline the development of parts which will subsequently be manufactured in high volumes (melting, injection). Other uses are related to lighter structures or heat transfer, such as in the case of personalised heat exchangers.

Uses
Automobile prototypes
Aerospace and defence
Cooling

Printing machinery

Used with aluminium
 
SELECTIVE LASER MELTING (SLM) RENISHAW AM400

The Renishaw AM400 includes the latest developments of the AM250 platform such as the improved optical control software, the reviewed gas flow system, and window protection. The laser also has a power of 400 W, meaning it has a beam diameter of 70 µm.

WORK VOLUME 

The construction volume is 250x250x300 mm.

FLEXIBILITY 

The versatility of its design and the possibility to generate new processing parameters means that this equipment can work with a range of materials.

Cotización de forma inmediata
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Other materials

In addition to this service with Aluminium, we also offer it in the following materials: Take a look and decide the one best suited to your needs.

Our offer