An Overview of Metal Powder Production for Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

The production of metal powder is of paramount importance in additive manufacturing (AM) procedures, as it serves as the fundamental material required for the creation of intricate and multifaceted components. The current manuscript provides a comprehensive summary of metal powder manufacturing methods that are specifically customised for additive manufacturing (AM) purposes. The abstract centres on the fundamental elements of metal powder manufacturing, encompassing powder properties, fabrication techniques, and measures for ensuring quality control. Initially, the significance of powder characteristics in additive manufacturing (AM) is deliberated. The properties and processability of the final product are significantly impacted by factors such as particle size, shape, distribution, and composition. The proper selection of powder characteristics is of utmost importance in attaining the desired material properties and ensuring favourable build outcomes. Subsequently, diverse techniques for the production of metal powders are investigated. The techniques employed in this study include conventional methods such as gas atomization, water atomization, and plasma atomization, alongside novel technologies such as selective laser melting, electron beam melting, and binder jetting. Every technique possesses unique benefits and drawbacks that impact the shape, cleanliness, and cost efficiency of the powder. Additionally, the quality control procedures utilised in the production of metal powder are delineated. The aforementioned measures encompass particle size analysis, chemical composition analysis, flowability testing, and powder handling protocols. The maintenance of uniform and dependable powder quality is of utmost importance in order to ensure the replicability and efficacy of additive manufacturing procedures. The article additionally emphasises current progressions and continuing investigative endeavours in the production of metal powder. The implementation of novel techniques such as alloy development, process optimisation, and recycling methods has been shown to have a positive impact on the quality of powders, the range of available materials, and the overall cost-effectiveness of production processes. Ultimately, the production of metal powder for additive manufacturing (AM) is a complex area that necessitates meticulous attention to powder properties, appropriate selection of production techniques, and the incorporation of stringent quality assurance protocols. Through comprehension of these factors, manufacturers can enhance their additive manufacturing (AM) procedures, attain exceptional component excellence, and expedite the implementation of AM technology across diverse sectors. Here i am developing a new method to produce metal powders from Mechancial Grinding.

Cite as

Sagar K G. (2023). An Overview of Metal Powder Production for Additive Manufacturing. Recent Trends in Production Engineering, 6(2), 11–23. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8282813