Since the beginning of The Virtual Foundry, I’ve been experimenting with nearly every variation, adaptation and enhancement for the most common methods of sintering for 3D Metal prints. One that we have not yet perfected but shows tremendous promise is Liquid Phase Sintering. This technique provides a method of producing a part of very low porosity and close to zero shrinkage. We’ve had intermittent success. I think we’re very close to having a fully deployable solution. If you would like to participate in developing this process, please contact me at [email protected] I can put you in contact with other people that are developing this process.
This technique can overcome some of the limitations of Powder Metallurgy in a way that is so elegant that it sounds too good to be true. First, let’s look at a dictionary definition of the Term:
“Liquid phase sintering is a consolidation technique of powder compacts containing more than one component at a temperature above the solidus of the components and hence, in the presence of a liquid.”
-Science Direct (You can also find more great research on their website HERE.)
In a nutshell, you print your part with Stainless 316, for example. You sinter it using your normal debind and sinter recipe, but you do this in the presence of a metal has a lower melting point than you base material. In the example photo I printed with 316l, but put it in contact with Bronze. As the sintering temperatures for the 316l are reached, the Bronze will be in a liquid form. Since all sintering is a process involving Surface Tension, once the bronze whets the 316l it will become soaked into the 316l as if it were a sort of sponge. This technique is pretty normal for stainless parts that are created using the Binder Jet method. Here’s a link to a very good explanation of the process. In this video they are using an ExOne powder-bed system. My link here will take you right to the interesting part, but the whole video is worth watching. How It’s Made: Metal 3D Printing
Ford V8 in Stainless 316l Infiltrated with Bronze.
316L Stainless infiltrated with Bronze. Image 1
316L Stainless infiltrated with Bronze. Image 2
316L Stainless infiltrated with Bronze. Microscopic/etched
clone tag: -2944796079085787582
For more information, please contact The Virtual Foundry. We curate and publish ALL data we’re allowed to that’s shared with us by our users. Our key purpose is to create new 3d printing materials and develop the processes necessary to make those materials useful to EVERYONE. Your can reach us at [email protected]
We also have a PDF of a book on this topic. You can find it HERE.
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liquid sintering, sintering metal, liquid phase sintering, 3d sintering, virtual foundry sintering, definition of density in science, liquid state sintering, liquid phase sintering process
Understanding the Benefits of Liquid Phase Sintering
Liquid Phase Sintering offers several advantages over traditional sintering methods, particularly in the realm of 3D metal printing. One of the most significant benefits is its ability to produce parts with low porosity, which enhances the mechanical properties and overall durability of the final product. This method allows for better density and strength, making it ideal for applications requiring high-performance materials.
Additionally, Liquid Phase Sintering minimizes shrinkage during the sintering process, which is crucial for maintaining the dimensional accuracy of printed parts. This characteristic reduces the need for extensive post-processing, saving both time and resources. Industries such as aerospace and automotive are increasingly adopting this technique to improve the reliability and efficiency of their components.
Applications of Liquid Phase Sintering in Industry
Liquid Phase Sintering has found a variety of applications across different industries due to its unique capabilities. It is particularly beneficial in producing complex geometries and intricate designs that are often challenging to achieve with conventional sintering methods. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical devices leverage this technique to create components that require high precision and performance.
For example, in the aerospace sector, parts produced using Liquid Phase Sintering can withstand extreme conditions and offer lightweight solutions without compromising strength. In the medical field, customized implants and prosthetics can be manufactured with tailored properties, enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Collaboration Opportunities in Liquid Phase Sintering Research
The Virtual Foundry actively seeks collaboration opportunities to advance the research and development of Liquid Phase Sintering techniques. By partnering with academic institutions, industry leaders, and innovative startups, we aim to explore new materials and processes that can enhance the capabilities of 3D metal printing. Collaboration not only fosters innovation but also accelerates the development of practical applications.
Educational Resources on Liquid Phase Sintering
To support the growing interest in Liquid Phase Sintering, The Virtual Foundry provides a range of educational resources aimed at both beginners and experienced professionals. These resources include detailed guides, instructional videos, and comprehensive literature that cover the principles and practices of Liquid Phase Sintering. Our goal is to empower users with the knowledge needed to effectively utilize this technique in their projects.
lps, sintering, sls print, print sls
liquid sintering, sintering metal, liquid phase sintering, 3d sintering, virtual foundry sintering, definition of density in science, liquid state sintering, liquid phase sintering process
Understanding the Benefits of Liquid Phase Sintering
Liquid Phase Sintering offers several advantages over traditional sintering methods, particularly in the realm of 3D metal printing. One of the most significant benefits is its ability to produce parts with low porosity, which enhances the mechanical properties and overall durability of the final product. This method allows for better density and strength, making it ideal for applications requiring high-performance materials.
Additionally, Liquid Phase Sintering minimizes shrinkage during the sintering process, which is crucial for maintaining the dimensional accuracy of printed parts. This characteristic reduces the need for extensive post-processing, saving both time and resources. Industries such as aerospace and automotive are increasingly adopting this technique to improve the reliability and efficiency of their components.
Applications of Liquid Phase Sintering in Industry
Liquid Phase Sintering has found a variety of applications across different industries due to its unique capabilities. It is particularly beneficial in producing complex geometries and intricate designs that are often challenging to achieve with conventional sintering methods. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical devices leverage this technique to create components that require high precision and performance.
For example, in the aerospace sector, parts produced using Liquid Phase Sintering can withstand extreme conditions and offer lightweight solutions without compromising strength. In the medical field, customized implants and prosthetics can be manufactured with tailored properties, enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Collaboration Opportunities in Liquid Phase Sintering Research
The Virtual Foundry actively seeks collaboration opportunities to advance the research and development of Liquid Phase Sintering techniques. By partnering with academic institutions, industry leaders, and innovative startups, we aim to explore new materials and processes that can enhance the capabilities of 3D metal printing. Collaboration not only fosters innovation but also accelerates the development of practical applications.
Educational Resources on Liquid Phase Sintering
To support the growing interest in Liquid Phase Sintering, The Virtual Foundry provides a range of educational resources aimed at both beginners and experienced professionals. These resources include detailed guides, instructional videos, and comprehensive literature that cover the principles and practices of Liquid Phase Sintering. Our goal is to empower users with the knowledge needed to effectively utilize this technique in their projects.
