Copper has been proven by laser processing and some system manufacturers offer it as a standard. New green/blue lasers will improve things as this type of laser couples more efficiently to copper. Copper has also been processed by binderjet printing. Similar to MIM (Metal Injection Molding), it is difficult to get very high densities so conductivity will be slightly less than maximum. Both processes (laser and binderjet) produce a print that is dead soft (fully annealed). It is not possible to add strength via subsequent heat treatments.
Brass cannot be processed by laser methods as the zinc in the alloy volatilizes and obliterates the laser. I have heard claims that you can get around this with increased gas flow but I'm not convinced. in most likelihood your microstructure will be porous from the zinc evaporation. Binderjet processing of brass will also be very difficult. The nascent brass powder will have a coating of zinc oxide on it, which will prevent sintering. Brass MIM is not practiced so it follows that brass binderjetting would not be possible, either.
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Joseph Strauss
Engineer/President
H J E COMPANY, INC.
Queensbury NY
(518) 792-8733
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Original Message:
Sent: 07-09-2020 15:50
From: John Krebs
Subject: 3-D printing of copper and brass
What is the current status of 3-D printing in red metals like copper and brass.
As well as the density of these metals when printed.
If possible to print, can the parts coming off the 3-D printer be used for electrical parts?
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John Krebs
ELECTROHEAT, LLC
Hartford WI
(262) 644-5100
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