Concerning metals Additive Manufacturing can be divided into two main subcategories:
(a) powder bed methods and (b) jet based methods.

On one side we have the powder bed methods which comprise such methods as binder jetting, laser melting and electron based melting. The general idea is here that a certain object is created by layering, namely by consecutively melting and fusing metal powder layers on top of each other, according to a predefined computer design.

On the other side we have jet based methods like laser wire welding and laser powder welding as well as electric arc welding and metal FFF printing. These methods can be described as a special form of welding during which materials can even be changed, combined and develop synergies.

All these technologies have different advantages and disadvantages but they have all one thing in common: they all are subject to always developing and improving powders in order to meet the highest standards and state of the art printing.

Currently the standards for AM printing are defined in DIN EN ISO/ASTM 52900 (Additive Manufacturing – Basics – Terminology). This norm defines the most important technical terms in this area and defines the categories binder jetting (BJT), directed energy deposition (DED) and material extrusion (MEX) as well as material jetting (MJT), powder bed fusion (PBF), sheet lamination (SHL) and vat photopolymerization (VPP). Despite of this norm there still is some confusion about norms and standards so that e.g. a 316L might be modified according to its manufacturer.

Intersteelar will have your powders created according to your specific needs and requested chemical compositions. Please consult us for more details.