We offer 3D printing for metal, enabling the more cost-effective and efficient production of even simple components. 3D printing is often advantageous when these components are difficult to machine, especially if they are very intricate or require numerous tools for processing.
We understand that 3D printing technology can sometimes seem complicated, and we strive to explain everything as clearly as possible. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Table of contents
How does metal 3D printing work?
What post-processing options are available for metal parts?
What should you consider before commissioning a 3D print?
How much does 3D printing in metal cost?
Do you have all the procedures and materials?
Advantages of 3D printing on metal
Is multi-material possible in a single component?
What processes are there in metal 3D printing?
What is the service process?
If you have a 3D file, you can use our 3D printing price calculator . Select your desired metal and send us your inquiry. This is a request for a quote, not an order. We will check the feasibility and identify any potential issues. If everything checks out, you will receive our offer. If you are interested, you can accept the offer and we will begin the 3D printing process.
For preliminary information, we are happy to assist you by phone or email to clarify details and answer any questions.
Which metals can be printed?
It is possible to print on metals such as aluminum , titanium , copper , stainless steel, brass, or bronze. This material list is updated regularly, and if a material is not listed, please contact us as new materials are constantly being added.
Aluminium (AlSi10Mg)
Aluminum (AlSi9Cu3)
Stainless steel (316L)
Stainless steel (17-4 PH)
Tool steel (X3NiCoMoTi)
Titanium (TiAl6V4)
Inconel (IN625)
Inconel (IN718)
Copper (Cu)
Brass (CuZn)
Bronze (CuSn)
How does metal 3D printing work?
Layer by layer construction:
Metal 3D printers work by applying metal powder layer by layer, then building each section of the part one after the other.
Laser melting:
The most commonly used technology is laser melting. In this process, a powerful laser is used to melt and solidify the metal powder at the desired locations.
Cooling and solidification phases:
Once a layer has melted, the metal cools rapidly and solidifies. This process allows for the production of complex geometries.
Post-processing and cleaning:
After printing, the manufactured metal part can undergo further treatments such as the removal of support structures, sandblasting, or heat treatment to optimize the final properties.
What tolerances are possible?
Various factors such as the material and individual components influence the tolerance of a printed object.
Tolerances: Individual production ± 0.4% ±0.2mm
Tolerances: Series production ± 0.2% ±0.1mm
What post-processing options are available for metal parts?
Sandblasting:
Sandblasting with particles ensures a uniform surface. Different blasting media can affect the surface in different ways.
Drum grinding:
During drum grinding, the surface is smoothed, partially lightly polished, and the edges are rounded to give the component a smooth surface.
Polishing:
Polishing aluminum brings the surface to a high gloss, making it mirror-smooth. This step is useful when a particularly high gloss is crucial.
CNC:
3D printing is not always precise. For specific areas, subsequent machining using CNC can be performed. The combination of 3D printing and subsequent CNC machining offers both design freedom and precision in terms of fit.
Coating:
Surface coatings allow certain properties to be added through substances that are not possible with the base material alone, such as chemical resistance, surface adhesion, or wear resistance.
Heat treatment:
Subsequent annealing of components can increase their hardness, electrical conductivity, or strength. Each material offers specific possibilities for improving its properties.
What should you consider before commissioning a 3D print?
Thread:
In general, threads should be avoided in 3D printing, as the end result is often rough and functionality is not always guaranteed. For example, to create an M4 thread, you would first print a 3 mm hole, then drill it with a 3.3 mm drill bit, and finally tap the M4 thread conventionally.
Bore:
With 3D printed metal parts, it's not always guaranteed that holes will be perfectly round due to the printing direction and arrangement; they can be oval or irregularly shaped. To achieve precise results, holes should be printed 0.2–0.5 mm smaller than the final dimension and then drilled to the desired size.
Tolerance:
3D service providers receive 3D models where tolerances can vary, requiring either over- or under-tolerances. To minimize these deviations, it is advisable to design for a balance between tolerances.
Curves:
As with conventional manufacturing processes, curves and radii should always be incorporated into 3D printing to minimize stress. In 3D printing, the number of radii is actually less critical, as it is easier to produce complex shapes. This contrasts with conventional manufacturing processes, where integrating curves involves more time and tooling costs.
Functional dimension:
If a particularly smooth surface or precise dimensions are required, it is advisable to include a dimensioning in the design. This allows the desired accuracy to be achieved through subsequent processing methods.
How much does 3D printing in metal cost?
The cost varies depending on the metal used, such as aluminum or stainless steel, and the volume of the desired object. Generally, the cost ranges from approximately €5 to €20 per cubic centimeter. Our online calculator allows you to upload components, select the desired metal, and immediately see the corresponding price.
How stable are metal 3D printed parts?
Metal 3D printing achieves high stability and strength, similar to conventional manufacturing methods. However, it is not directly comparable to milled, injection-molded, or forged components. One weakness is the lower stress concentration resistance compared to traditional methods. After printing, the components can be heat-treated to relieve stress and homogenize the microstructure. Post-processing techniques such as sandblasting or polishing can further improve the material properties and tailor them to specific requirements.
Do you have all the procedures and materials?
We have a selection of 3D printers and materials that we can produce in-house. However, we don't have all processes and materials available. We have trusted partners who cover processes, materials, and niche applications. Based on your requirements and project goals, we know which process is best suited for your project. We already have experience with various manufacturers and know who is best suited to meet your specific needs.
Advantages of 3D printing on metal
The advantage of 3D printing with metal lies in its speed and cost-effectiveness. Compared to traditional manufacturing methods, which often require expensive tools or molds, 3D printing allows for rapid iteration and adaptation of the design. 3D printing also enables companies to test the product early on and gather feedback from potential customers or stakeholders. This eliminates the need to search for different processes and manufacturers, thus simplifying and accelerating the prototyping process.
Is multi-material printing possible in 3D printing?
3D printing with multiple materials simultaneously is possible. It's an advanced process that allows different materials to be combined in a single 3D printing process. Various approaches and technologies are used for multi-material 3D printing. Multiple printheads can be employed to deposit different materials at the same time. Each printhead can be loaded with a different material, be it plastic, rubber, or even biological tissue. This allows for the printing of complex objects with varying properties such as hardness, flexibility, or color. 3D printing enables the production of products with sophisticated designs and functions. It opens up new possibilities for prototypes, end products, and even biomedical applications. Here's a video on YouTube about multi-material 3D printing.
What processes are there in metal 3D printing?
I am currently aware of 12 procedures .
Selective laser melting (SLM):
In the SLM process, metal powder is applied layer by layer and selectively fused using a high-intensity laser. This creates the desired three-dimensional workpiece. Here's a video on YouTube showing how it works.
Electron beam melting (EBM):
In the EBM process, metal powder is fused with a focused electron beam. This enables the precise manufacturing of complex metal parts. Here's a video on YouTube showing how it works.
Selective electron beam melting (SEBM):
Similar to EBM, but the melting is selective using the electron beam. This method allows for precise control over the melting process. Here's a video on YouTube. how it works.
Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS):
In the DMLS process, metal powder is fused layer by layer using a laser. This process is suitable for the production of precise and complex metallic components. Here is a video on YouTube. how it works.
Metal Binder Jetting (MBJ):
In MBJ (Metal Metal Jigging), metal powder is bonded layer by layer using a binder and then transformed into a solid metal part through heat treatment. Here's a video on YouTube. how it works.
Laser Metal Deposition (LMD):
Laser metal deposition (LMD) uses a laser beam to apply and fuse layers of metal powder. This allows for the repair of components or the addition of material. Here's a video on YouTube. how it works.
Direct Metal Printing (DMP):
DMP is a 3D printing process in which metal parts are produced by melting metal powder layer by layer. A laser or electron beam is used to melt the powder and create precise metal components. Here's a video on YouTube. how it works.
Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF):
LPBF is a high-precision additive manufacturing process in which a focused laser fuses metal particles layer by layer to create complex and customized metal components. This process enables the production of parts with high accuracy and quality. Here is a video on YouTube that illustrates the process.
Direct Energy Deposition (DED):
DED is a manufacturing process in which metallic materials are built up layer by layer by directly depositing molten wire or powder using a focused energy beam. This method enables the production of large-format components, repair operations, and the integration of various materials. Here is a video on YouTube that illustrates the process.
MoldJet:
Tritone's MoldJet process is a powder-free 3D printing technology that enables the large-scale, high-speed industrial production of metal and ceramic parts. Here is a video on YouTube that illustrates the process.
Metal Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF):
In the metal FFF process, the metal filament is first melted and applied layer by layer. This is followed by the debinding process, in which organic components are removed, and then by sintering, in which the metal parts are densified and strengthened. Here is a video on YouTube that illustrates the process.
Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM):
WAAM is a manufacturing process in which metal parts are produced by depositing molten wire layer by layer using arc radiation. This method enables the efficient production of large components with high layer thicknesses, thus saving time and costs. Here is a video on YouTube that illustrates the process.
3D printing in metal - we are your partner for sophisticated projects
Metal 3D printing offers you a modern and future-oriented process, ideally suited for the cost-effective production of components. It's equally suitable for creating initial prototypes and producing small batches: Metal 3D printing boasts minimal time investment and low costs. We see ourselves as your full-service provider for 3D printing and offer comprehensive support. We are not only experts in traditional printing but can also assist you with the design phase, if desired. For example, if you lack the appropriate 3D file for metal 3D printing, you can rely on our service.
Leverage 3D printing in metal for product development.
Metal 3D printing is based on the use of modern technologies that offer you maximum flexibility. Complex shapes and models can be produced quickly and cost-effectively using 3D printing processes. If you are considering metal 3D printing but are unsure whether this method is the right choice for your ideas, we are happy to provide comprehensive support. We are not only your expert for traditional 3D printing, but also offer a selection of modern surface treatments. These include grinding and coloring, as well as painting and laminating.
You can rely on our high quality standards.
Comprehensive and transparent collaboration with our customers is a matter of course for us. That's why we prioritize close communication with you when it comes to 3D printing with metal. At the same time, we offer you plenty of flexibility. You can choose your favorite from 15 different metals, including classics like steel, copper, and aluminum. Want to learn more? Then get in touch with us now.
