2024-05-02 19:18:08
From a sustainability perspective, the use of Helium gas is the least burdensome for gas atomization of powders for additive manufacturing. However, mechanical production of metal powders requires much less energy, up to 90% compared to gas atomization. These are some of the first results of a study commissioned by AMGTA.
Of Additive Manufacturer Green Trade Association investigated three methods for processing metal AM raw materials – gas atomization, mechanical milling (particularly ball milling) and wire drawing – for energy consumption per kilogram of metal powder produced. This shows that Helium gas atomization (atomization) is the most sustainable method when compared with Argon and nitrogen as gas. The specific energy consumption of Helium is on average 13% better than Argon and even 28% compared to nitrogen. When it comes to the production of SS316L, Al5083, and IN718 powders, Helium as an atomization gas requires 12% less energy than when using nitrogen.
Key considerations for AM powder manufacturers
Up to 90% less energy
However, there is a much more energy-efficient method of making the powders, namely mechanical techniques. Ball milling uses up to 90% less energy per kilogram of powder compared to atomization processes. However, additional research is needed here, it is reported. Brian R. Neff, board member of AMGTA, points out that the research results make it clear to the market that the mechanical production of the AM feedstock based on energy needs is much better than the process in which gas plays a role. However, in the powder industry, atomization is seen as the technology to make AM powders.
Why these studies
The study was conducted in the run-up to a full LCA to better appreciate the production processes of metal powders. Sherri Monroe, Executive Director of the AMGTA. “These findings highlight important considerations for manufacturers seeking environmentally friendly raw material production methods. To advance sustainability in additive manufacturing, research is vital to make informed decisions.”
The research you can request here
Photo: AMGTA / Carpenter
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#Mechanical #production #powders #energyfriendly
