With the continuous progress of science and technology, 3D printing technology has gradually come from science fiction into reality, becoming an indispensable innovation tool in many fields. Among them, metal 3D printing has its unique advantages in the aerospace, automotive manufacturing, medical equipment and other industries. So, what metals are used in metal 3D printing? How is the price of the material calculated? Next, let us unveil the mystery of metal 3D printing.

First: Method of material selection for metal 3D printing

Metal 3D printing adopts a wide variety of materials, covering stainless steel, aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, nickel-based high temperature alloy and other high-performance metal materials. These materials have their own characteristics and can meet the demand of different fields.

Stainless steel: With its excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties, it has become the material in fields such as medical, chemical and marine engineering. Complex and fine stainless steel parts can be manufactured to meet various special demand via 3D printing technology.

Aluminum alloy: It is widely used in aerospace, automotive and other fields with its lightweight and high strength properties. Metal 3D printing technology can manufacture high-precision, lightweight aluminum alloy products to enhance product performance.

Titanium alloy: This material has high strength and corrosion resistance, and is commonly used to manufacture high-end structural parts in aerospace, ocean engineering and other fields. Complex titanium alloy parts can be manufactured to meet the demand for use in extreme environments via 3D printing technology.

Mold steel: Metal material which is used to manufacture various molds requires high hardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance. Metal 3D printing technology makes mold manufacturing faster and more flexible.

High-temperature alloys: Metal material which is used in the manufacture of high-temperature environments requires excellent high-temperature resistance and corrosion resistance. Complex high-temperature alloy parts can be manufactured via 3D printing technology.

Second: Metal 3D printing material price analysis

The price of metal 3D printing materials varies depending on the type of material, purity, shape, size and other factors. Generally speaking, metal powder materials and metal matrix composites are the main material types for metal 3D printing.

The price of metal powder materials mainly depends on the metal type and purity. For example, stainless steel powders are relatively inexpensive, while titanium and nickel alloy powders are more expensive. In addition, the particle size, shape and flow-ability of the powder also affect the price.

The price of metal matrix materials is even more complex, as these materials are usually composites of a variety of materials and their price is affected by a number of factors. For example, factors such as the type, content, and distribution of the reinforcing phase can affect the performance and price of the composite.

When calculating the price of metal 3D printing materials, it is also necessary to consider factors such as the preparation cost of the material, processing cost, and market supply and demand. Generally speaking, the price of metal 3D printing materials is relatively high, but considering their unique advantages and application scope, their cost-effectiveness is still very high.

In conclusion, metal 3D printing technology is changing the way we produce and live with its unique advantages. With the continuous progress of technology and material innovation, metal 3D printing will show its great potential and value in more fields.