{"id":8483,"date":"2026-08-20T17:45:46","date_gmt":"2026-08-20T15:45:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/?p=8483"},"modified":"2026-08-21T15:50:18","modified_gmt":"2026-08-21T13:50:18","slug":"additive-fertigung-fuer-europas-industrie","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/additive-fertigung-fuer-europas-industrie\/","title":{"rendered":"Additive manufacturing using metal powders: Why this technology is becoming increasingly important for European industry"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metallpulver-additive-fertigung\/\">additive manufacturing<\/a><\/strong> has changed fundamentally in recent years.<\/p>\n<p>What was long associated primarily with prototypes, individual components and technological feasibility studies is increasingly becoming an integral part of industrial production strategies.<\/p>\n<p>Today, companies use metal 3D printing for a range of applications, including functionally integrated components, tools with contour-following cooling, high-quality spare parts, repairs and selected mass-production applications.<\/p>\n<p>It is no longer simply a matter of being able to manufacture geometrically complex components. What matters is whether the entire process chain operates in a cost-effective, reproducible and verifiable manner.<\/p>\n<p>According to [source], the global market for additive manufacturing reached [figure] in 2025 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.astm.org\/news\/press-releases\/wohlers-report-2026\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Wohlers Report 2026<\/a> one <strong>Turnover of 24.2 billion US dollars<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>This represents growth of 10.9 per cent compared with the previous year.<\/p>\n<p>Printing services already accounted for 48 per cent of the market, whilst materials accounted for 20 per cent.<\/p>\n<p>This breakdown shows that the sector is maturing. The economic focus is increasingly shifting away from the mere acquisition of new plant towards the actual production of components and the utilisation of existing capacity.<\/p>\n<p>The technology is also becoming increasingly important to European industry from a strategic perspective.<\/p>\n<p>The European Commission regards additive manufacturing as one of the areas in which Europe has industrial strengths and should further enhance its competitiveness.<\/p>\n<p>The VDMA describes additive manufacturing as <strong>horizontal key technology<\/strong> for the mechanical engineering sector and numerous other industries.<\/p>\n<p>However, industrial success does not depend solely on machinery and component design. <strong>The metal powder used is a key component of the entire manufacturing system.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Particle size, morphology, flowability, purity, oxygen content and batch consistency can have a direct influence on process stability, component density, surface quality and reproducibility.<\/p>\n<p>This article explains why additive manufacturing is becoming increasingly important for Europe\u2019s industry, when it offers advantages over conventional processes, and which metal powders and quality characteristics should be taken into account when selecting materials.<\/p>\n<div class=\"info-box\">\n<p><strong>Key points at a glance:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Additive manufacturing is evolving from prototyping to the industrial production of components and mass production.<\/li>\n<li>It is particularly useful for complex geometries, high levels of functional integration, small and medium-sized production runs, and high-quality replacement and repair parts.<\/li>\n<li>Not every component and not every metal powder is suitable for every additive manufacturing process.<\/li>\n<li>Particle size distribution, morphology, flowability, chemical composition and batch-to-batch consistency all influence the process.<\/li>\n<li>The most cost-effective solution results from the interplay between components, processes, equipment, powder quality and post-processing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<h2>From prototype to mass production: additive manufacturing is becoming an economic force<\/h2>\n<p>For a long time, additive manufacturing was mainly associated with rapid prototyping.<\/p>\n<p>Companies used the technology to produce development models, display items or initial functional prototypes without the need for costly tooling.<\/p>\n<p>This application remains important, but today it represents only a fraction of the industrial potential.<\/p>\n<h3>Mass production rather than just prototyping<\/h3>\n<p>Modern additive manufacturing systems are increasingly being used for finished components, tools, repairs and recurring production orders.<\/p>\n<p>Development does not proceed at the same pace in every sector or for every process.<\/p>\n<p>Nevertheless, it is clear that the technology is increasingly being assessed on the basis of measurable production targets:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How many compliant components can be produced per plant?<\/li>\n<li>How consistent is the process across several batches?<\/li>\n<li>What are the levels of scrap, rework and inspection costs?<\/li>\n<li>What are the costs involved across the entire process chain?<\/li>\n<li>Which conventional manufacturing, assembly or tooling steps can be omitted?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Wohlers Report 2026 describes an industry in which growth is driven more by production, services and the utilisation of existing capacity than by a uniform rise in machinery sales.<\/p>\n<p>Printing services grew significantly faster than sales of new systems in 2025.<\/p>\n<p>For industrial users, this means that the focus is shifting from the question of whether additive manufacturing is technically feasible to the question of, <strong>where it can be used reliably and cost-effectively<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>Material consumption and component production are becoming more important than machine sales<\/h3>\n<p>The fact that materials already account for a significant share of the overall market underscores the importance of high-quality feedstocks.<\/p>\n<p>A high-performance system alone does not, in itself, produce a reproducible component.<\/p>\n<p>The material must be suitable for the machine, the exposure or coating process, the film thickness and the desired property profile.<\/p>\n<p><strong>As industrialisation increases, the demands placed on the following therefore rise:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>clearly defined powder specifications<\/li>\n<li>reproducible particle size distributions<\/li>\n<li>consistent chemical composition<\/li>\n<li>Traceability and test certificates<\/li>\n<li>controlled storage and reuse<\/li>\n<li>Reliable availability for sampling and production runs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Metal powder is thus transformed from what was once considered a consumable into a strategic component of the production approval process.<\/p>\n<h3>Industrial investment demonstrates the transition into practice<\/h3>\n<p>Current investments highlight the shift towards industrial applications.<\/p>\n<p>In 2025, Bosch invested just under six million euros in a new metal AM centre in Nuremberg.<\/p>\n<p>The aim is to shorten development times and bring metal components to volume production more quickly.<\/p>\n<p>Metal binder jetting is also increasingly being used for scalable production runs.<\/p>\n<p>Following the launch of a dedicated production platform, the Spanish powder metallurgy specialist AMES now offers series production of up to 50,000 components per year. The process combines tool-free shaping with subsequent debinding and sintering.<\/p>\n<p>In the <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/maschinen-und-werkzeugbau\/\">Toolmaking<\/a> Additively manufactured tool inserts offer a further source of cost savings. In 2025, Fraunhofer ILT and its industry partners demonstrated a large die-casting mould with contour-following cooling.<\/p>\n<p>Smaller tools based on this basic concept are already in series production at Toyota. The additive manufacturing process allows for cooling channels that run closer to areas subject to thermal stress, which are difficult to produce using conventional methods.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Additive manufacturing does not become cost-effective simply because a component can be printed.<\/strong> It becomes cost-effective if it improves development time, tooling costs, assembly, material consumption, repair costs or component performance across the entire process chain.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2>Why additive manufacturing is strategically important for European industry<\/h2>\n<p>Europe has a strong industrial base, a highly capable mechanical engineering sector and a dense network of materials manufacturers, plant manufacturers, research institutions and specialist users.<\/p>\n<p>At the same time, European industry is facing intense pressure in terms of costs, innovation and competition.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu\/industry\/advanced-manufacturing_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">European Commission<\/a> identifies advanced manufacturing as a key factor in industrial competitiveness and economic resilience.<\/p>\n<p>Alongside robotics, the Internet of Things and digital twins, additive manufacturing is one of the technologies on which Europe should place particular emphasis.<\/p>\n<h3>Shorter development times and faster time-to-market<\/h3>\n<p>Additive manufacturing works directly with digital component data. Depending on the process, moulds, dies or product-specific tools are either not required at all or only to a limited extent.<\/p>\n<p>This often means that changes to a component can be incorporated into a new production run more quickly.<\/p>\n<p>This is particularly relevant for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Prototypes and functional samples<\/li>\n<li>Development components<\/li>\n<li>small and medium-sized production runs<\/li>\n<li>customised versions<\/li>\n<li>Tools and tool inserts<\/li>\n<li>Components with short product life cycles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The advantage lies not only in shorter printing times. The key factor is that there can be fewer tooling-dependent intermediate steps between design, testing and optimisation. This makes it possible to shorten development cycles and implement product changes more flexibly.<\/p>\n<h3>More resilient and flexible supply chains<\/h3>\n<p>Additive manufacturing can help companies produce selected spare parts, specialised components or hard-to-source parts in a way that better meets their needs.<\/p>\n<p>Rather than permanently storing every part physically, in appropriate cases, qualified data records and process approvals can form part of a digital spare parts strategy.<\/p>\n<p>This may offer a number of advantages:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>lower stock levels for components that are rarely needed<\/li>\n<li>shorter delivery times for discontinued or hard-to-source parts<\/li>\n<li>Manufacturing closer to the point of use<\/li>\n<li>a more flexible response to fluctuating demand<\/li>\n<li>less reliance on individual tools or moulds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>However, these opportunities do not arise automatically.<\/p>\n<p>Validated component data, certified machinery, suitable materials, defined post-processing and a robust quality assurance system are required.<\/p>\n<p>The European project <a href=\"https:\/\/interregional-innovation-investments.ec.europa.eu\/good-practices\/3dop-shared-and-neutral-validation-environments\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">3DoP<\/a> addressed precisely these challenges \u2013 including production costs, process reliability, automation, quality control, repairs and refurbishment.<\/p>\n<h3>Functional integration and new component geometries<\/h3>\n<p>A key advantage of additive manufacturing lies in the ability to produce geometries that, using conventional methods, would be very difficult or even impossible to manufacture.<\/p>\n<p>These include, for example:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>internal cooling and media channels<\/li>\n<li>Truss and lightweight structures<\/li>\n<li>Graded densities and defined porosity<\/li>\n<li>functionally integrated components<\/li>\n<li>complex flow and heat exchanger geometries<\/li>\n<li>Assembly of a component from several individual parts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If several functions are combined within a single component, joints, seals, bolted connections and assembly steps can be eliminated.<\/p>\n<p>This can reduce weight, sources of error and assembly effort. However, whether this benefit outweighs the costs must be assessed on a component-by-component basis.<\/p>\n<h3>Repair and extension of component service life<\/h3>\n<p>Additive manufacturing is not only used for new components. Processes such as directed energy deposition enable material to be applied locally to existing components. This makes it possible to repair worn areas, restore geometries or add functional surfaces.<\/p>\n<p>This is particularly interesting in the case of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>high-quality tools<\/li>\n<li>large machine components<\/li>\n<li>spare parts that are difficult to source<\/li>\n<li>Components subject to localised wear<\/li>\n<li>Components with a high material or machining cost<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Repairing a high-quality component can be more cost-effective and more resource-efficient than replacing it entirely. This requires a specialist process chain that takes into account material compatibility, adhesion, microstructure, post-processing and testing.<\/p>\n<h3>Material and resource efficiency<\/h3>\n<p>Additive manufacturing processes build a component layer by layer or by selectively applying material.<\/p>\n<p>With suitable geometries, this can result in less waste than machining processes, which remove a significant proportion of the raw material.<\/p>\n<p>Further potential areas include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Lightweight construction through topology-optimised structures<\/li>\n<li>Component consolidation and fewer individual parts<\/li>\n<li>Repair rather than complete replacement<\/li>\n<li>Reuse of unprocessed powder under specified conditions<\/li>\n<li>shorter transport distances with decentralised production<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>However, using fewer materials does not automatically mean a better environmental footprint.<\/p>\n<p>Energy requirements, inert gas, support structures, heat treatment, post-processing, scrap and machine utilisation must all be taken into account in the overall assessment.<\/p>\n<p>The standard <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/standard\/78527.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">ISO\/ASTM 52928:2024<\/a> It therefore explicitly addresses the life-cycle management of metallic powders \u2013 including powder quality, test methods, quality assurance and the control of new and used powders.<\/p>\n<h2>When additive manufacturing makes economic sense and when it does not<\/h2>\n<p>Additive manufacturing is not a universal substitute for casting, forging, machining, sintering or forming.<\/p>\n<p>It is an additional manufacturing option, the economic benefits of which depend on the specific component and the entire process chain.<\/p>\n<p><strong>This technology is often of particular interest in the following areas:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>complex geometries that require a great deal of conventional machining<\/li>\n<li>internal channels and functionally integrated structures<\/li>\n<li>small and medium quantities<\/li>\n<li>customised or highly varied components<\/li>\n<li>high-quality spare parts<\/li>\n<li>Tools with contour-following cooling<\/li>\n<li>Lightweight and lattice structures<\/li>\n<li>Components made from materials that are difficult to machine<\/li>\n<li>Repair and reconditioning of high-quality components<\/li>\n<li>Component consolidation with fewer assembly and joining steps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Its use should be carefully assessed in the following common situations:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>geometrically simple mass-produced components<\/li>\n<li>very high production volumes with no need for variants<\/li>\n<li>low-cost standard parts<\/li>\n<li>Components requiring a disproportionately high level of qualification<\/li>\n<li>significant post-processing and inspection requirements<\/li>\n<li>missing material or equipment approvals<\/li>\n<li>Components that are produced significantly faster and more cheaply using conventional methods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"container\" data-elementor-id=\"8502\" class=\"elementor elementor-8502\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a6fbc66 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3a6fbc66\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5c02b1a5 elementor-hidden-desktop elementor-hidden-tablet elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"5c02b1a5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"227\" src=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/scroll-02.svg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-3847\" alt=\"\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-41bb2707 elementor-widget elementor-widget-jet-table\" data-id=\"41bb2707\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_animation_mobile&quot;:&quot;headShake&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"jet-table.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-jet-table jet-elements\">\n\t\t<div class=\"jet-table-wrapper jet-table-responsive-mobile\">\n\t\t\t<table class=\"jet-table jet-table--fa5-compat\">\n\t\t\t\t<thead class=\"jet-table__head\"><tr class=\"jet-table__head-row\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-398390a jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Often of economic interest<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-7dbf3ab jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">To be examined critically<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<tbody class=\"jet-table__body\"><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-3e21f60\"><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-c59ea93 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Complex geometries<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-d03a7ae jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Simple standard geometries<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-41b9adb\"><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-1fcea55 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">High level of functional integration<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-fb55b9c jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Extensive post-processing without any added value<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-16f27e1\"><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-a50ac71 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Small to medium-sized production runs<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-cb1b28e jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Very high volumes<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-e7aa2f8\"><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-c71d1f9 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">High component or material value<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-3fd853e jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Low component value<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-53ceb36\"><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-50ed4e4 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Spare part, repair or discontinuation<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-befb039 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">A readily available standard component<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-0767946\"><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-f574624 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Wide range of variants<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-7f02ace jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Fully standardised product<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-6646436\"><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-03b9365 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Internal ducts and lightweight construction<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-0fc9abf jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">No constructive added value from AM<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody>\n\t\t\t<\/table>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>The decision should therefore not be based solely on the printing price.<\/p>\n<p>Factors to be considered include, amongst others, design, data preparation, materials, machine time, debinding, support structures, heat treatment, surface finishing, testing, scrap and documentation.<\/p>\n<h2>The metal powder determines the process and the quality of the component<\/h2>\n<p>Metal powder for additive manufacturing is not a raw material that can be substituted at will.<\/p>\n<p>Even powders made from the same alloy can differ in terms of particle size distribution, grain shape, surface characteristics, oxygen content, flow behaviour and density.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/standard\/73565.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ISO\/ASTM 52907<\/a> lists, amongst other things, documentation and traceability, sampling, particle size distribution, chemical composition, characteristic densities, morphology, flowability, impurities, as well as packaging and storage, as factors relevant to the characterisation of metallic powders.<\/p>\n<h3>Particle size and particle size distribution<\/h3>\n<p>The particle size distribution describes the size classes present within a powder.<\/p>\n<p>Among other things, it influences powder deposition, packing density, the achievable layer thickness and the level of detail.<\/p>\n<p>Very fine particles have a larger specific surface area and are therefore more prone to cohesion, agglomeration or oxidation.<\/p>\n<p>Coarser particles flow more easily, but are not automatically suitable for every layer thickness or geometry.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Finer is therefore not necessarily better.<\/strong> It is crucial that the distribution is appropriate for the plant, the process and the required component quality.<\/p>\n<p>Further background information can be found in the technical article on <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/korngroesse-von-metallpulvern\/\">Particle size of metal powders and its impact on production<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>Grain shape and morphology<\/h3>\n<p>Morphology describes the shape and surface structure of the particles.<\/p>\n<p>In many powder-bed processes, particles that are as round or spherical as possible are preferred, as they often distribute more evenly and flow better.<\/p>\n<p>However, it is not just \u201espherical\u201c or \u201eirregular\u201c that are relevant.<\/p>\n<p>The following factors may also influence the process:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Satellites attached to larger particles<\/li>\n<li>Agglomerates<\/li>\n<li>rough or porous surfaces<\/li>\n<li>Hollow particles<\/li>\n<li>elongated or platelet-shaped particles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The appropriate morphology depends on the procedure.<\/p>\n<p>A powder for PBF-LB\/M may need to meet different requirements to a powder for Directed Energy Deposition or Binder Jetting.<\/p>\n<h3>Flowability and layer distribution<\/h3>\n<p>In powder-bed-based processes, the powder must be applied repeatedly to form a layer that is as uniform as possible.<\/p>\n<p>Inadequate flow or coating properties can contribute to irregular layers, local variations in density and unstable construction processes.<\/p>\n<p>Flowability is not an isolated property. It arises from the interaction of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Particle size and size distribution<\/li>\n<li>Morphology and surface roughness<\/li>\n<li>Fine fraction<\/li>\n<li>Humidity and storage conditions<\/li>\n<li>chemical composition<\/li>\n<li>electrostatic and cohesive forces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Fraunhofer studies on 316L powders show that changes in the particle size distribution can influence flow behaviour and the subsequent properties of the components.<\/p>\n<p>Whilst the results for a particular material cannot be generalised to apply to all powders, they do illustrate the close link between powder characteristics and the process.<\/p>\n<h3>Purity, oxygen and impurities<\/h3>\n<p>The chemical composition influences material properties and workability. In addition to the main elements, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen and other impurities are particularly relevant.<\/p>\n<p>In the case of reactive materials such as titanium, aluminium or magnesium, even minor changes in surface properties or gas content can affect process windows and component properties. Mixing with other alloys must also be strictly avoided.<\/p>\n<p>Clear limits, test methods and documentation requirements should therefore be established for procurement.<\/p>\n<h3>Bulk density and tapped density<\/h3>\n<p>Bulk density describes how densely a powder is packed under defined conditions without any additional compaction.<\/p>\n<p>Tapped density is the density obtained after mechanical compaction by repeated tapping.<\/p>\n<p>Both values provide an indication of packing behaviour and compactability. However, they are no substitute for direct process testing.<\/p>\n<p>Two powders with similar bulk densities may nevertheless behave differently during the construction process due to differences in morphology or particle size distribution.<\/p>\n<h3>Batch consistency and traceability<\/h3>\n<p>For development projects, a single successful sample submission may be sufficient to begin with.<\/p>\n<p>In series production, however, the relevant powder properties must be reproducible across multiple deliveries and construction contracts.<\/p>\n<p>Key points are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>unique batch identification<\/li>\n<li>Test certificates and analytical data<\/li>\n<li>defined sampling<\/li>\n<li>Records of storage and use<\/li>\n<li>Inspection of mixtures of new and used powder<\/li>\n<li>Traceability right down to the finished component<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Particularly in the case of applications requiring extensive qualification, this documentation determines whether a powder can be approved for long-term use and utilised cost-effectively.<\/p>\n<h3>Powder life cycle and reuse<\/h3>\n<p>In powder bed processes, often only a proportion of the powder introduced is actually fused or bonded into the component.<\/p>\n<p>Unprocessed powder may be reused, depending on the material, process and approval procedure.<\/p>\n<p>Before reusing the item, the following steps, amongst others, may be necessary:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Dust removal and controlled collection<\/li>\n<li>A sieve for removing clumps or splashes<\/li>\n<li>Mixing with new powder<\/li>\n<li>Testing of particle size distribution and flowability<\/li>\n<li>Monitoring of oxygen and impurities<\/li>\n<li>Documentation of usage cycles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>ISO\/ASTM 52928:2024 sets out requirements for the life-cycle management of new and used powders.<\/p>\n<p>There is no fixed number of permissible reuse cycles. Approval must be granted on the basis of the material, process and application.<\/p>\n<h2>Which additive manufacturing processes use metal powders?<\/h2>\n<p>Additive manufacturing is not a single process. The term encompasses various families of processes that build up a three-dimensional component by depositing material layer by layer or through targeted application.<\/p>\n<p>Our page on <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/additive-fertigung\/\">Field of application: additive manufacturing<\/a> provides an overview of the industrial applications.<\/p>\n<p>You can find the available range of powders at <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metallpulver-additive-fertigung\/\">Metal powder for additive manufacturing<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB\/M)<\/h3>\n<p>In laser powder bed fusion, a thin layer of metal powder is applied and melted in the designated areas using a laser. A new layer is then applied. This process is repeated until the component has been fully built up.<\/p>\n<p>The terms SLM and DMLS, which remain in widespread use in practice, are frequently used to refer to variants of this laser-based powder-bed process.<\/p>\n<p>The standardised term is <strong>Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion of Metals, PBF-LB\/M<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The method is particularly suitable for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>complex and intricate components<\/li>\n<li>internal channels<\/li>\n<li>Lightweight and lattice structures<\/li>\n<li>Tool inserts with contour-following cooling<\/li>\n<li>small to medium-sized components with a high degree of design freedom<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Typical material groups include titanium, aluminium, steel, nickel and copper.<\/p>\n<p>Whether a particular grade of powder is suitable depends on the plant, coating thickness, process parameters and material approval.<\/p>\n<h3>Electron beam powder bed fusion (PBF-EB\/M)<\/h3>\n<p>In electron beam powder bed fusion, the powder bed is selectively melted layer by layer using an electron beam. The process takes place under high vacuum.<\/p>\n<p>PBF-EB\/M is used, amongst other things, for selected titanium, nickel and high-temperature materials. The higher process temperature can offer advantages for certain materials, but places specific demands on powder conductivity, process control and powder removal.<\/p>\n<p>Fraunhofer IFAM uses PBF-EB for, amongst other things, titanium, TiAl, nickel-based alloys and selected steel materials. Here too, the powder quality must be specifically qualified for the plant and the material concept.<\/p>\n<h3>Directed Energy Deposition (DED)<\/h3>\n<p>In directed energy deposition, material is fed directly into a local melt zone, where it is melted.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the system, lasers, electron beams or electric arcs can be used as the energy source. The feedstock is typically in the form of powder or wire.<\/p>\n<p>DED is particularly suitable for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Repair of high-quality components<\/li>\n<li>local material application<\/li>\n<li>Coatings and functional layers<\/li>\n<li>hybrid manufacturing<\/li>\n<li>larger components<\/li>\n<li>Prototypes and small batches<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>ASTM F3187 defines DED as a process for repair, rapid prototyping and low-volume production.<\/p>\n<p>For powder feeding systems, the key factors are, in particular, metric accuracy, particle size distribution, composition and a stable material flow.<\/p>\n<p>Suitable areas of application are <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/schweissanwendungen\/\">Welding applications<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/oberflaechenbeschichtung\/\">Surface coatings<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Metal Binder Jetting<\/h3>\n<p>In metal binder jetting, a layer of metal powder is first applied.<\/p>\n<p>A print head selectively applies binder and builds up a so-called green part layer by layer. This is then depowdered, debindered and sintered.<\/p>\n<p>The actual printing process takes place without the metal being melted locally.<\/p>\n<p>As a result, the process can achieve high production rates and accommodate a wide range of materials. At the same time, shrinkage, warping and the properties of the material after sintering must be taken into account.<\/p>\n<p>Fraunhofer IFAM considers sintering-based processes such as metal binder jetting to be particularly promising for industrial mass production applications.<\/p>\n<p>The materials processed include, amongst others, steels, nickel-based alloys, titanium alloys, copper, precious metals and other sinterable materials.<\/p>\n<p>For binder jetting, packing density, particle size distribution, wetting by the binder, and debinding and sintering behaviour are particularly crucial.<\/p>\n<p>The scope of application provides a suitable foundation <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/sinterformteile\/\">Sintered moulded parts<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Metal extrusion<\/h3>\n<p>In metal extrusion, the metal powder is not processed as a loose powder within the plant.<\/p>\n<p>It is embedded in a polymeric or otherwise bound feedstock, which is extruded in layers.<\/p>\n<p>Printing is usually followed by debinding and sintering. This transforms the initially bound green part into a compacted metal component.<\/p>\n<p>Quality does not depend solely on the powder, but on the overall balance between:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Metal powder<\/li>\n<li>Binder<\/li>\n<li>Feedstock homogeneity<\/li>\n<li>Print parameters<\/li>\n<li>Discharge process<\/li>\n<li>Sintering behaviour and shrinkage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Metal extrusion must be clearly distinguished from traditional plastic FDM processes, even though the shaping process may appear similar.<\/p>\n\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"container\" data-elementor-id=\"8510\" class=\"elementor elementor-8510\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a6fbc66 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3a6fbc66\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5c02b1a5 elementor-hidden-desktop elementor-hidden-tablet elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"5c02b1a5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"227\" src=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/scroll-02.svg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-3847\" alt=\"\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-41bb2707 elementor-widget elementor-widget-jet-table\" data-id=\"41bb2707\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_animation_mobile&quot;:&quot;headShake&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"jet-table.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-jet-table jet-elements\">\n\t\t<div class=\"jet-table-wrapper jet-table-responsive-mobile\">\n\t\t\t<table class=\"jet-table jet-table--fa5-compat\">\n\t\t\t\t<thead class=\"jet-table__head\"><tr class=\"jet-table__head-row\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-4211c65 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Procedure<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-398390a jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Source material<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-7dbf3ab jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Typical strength<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-e6334db jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Key powder characteristics<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<tbody class=\"jet-table__body\"><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-3e21f60\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-67407e3 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">PBF-LB\/M<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-c59ea93 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">loose metal powder<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-d03a7ae jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Precision and complex geometries<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-7820494 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Flowability, morphology, particle size distribution<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-41b9adb\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-5c7a4f7 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">PBF-EB\/M<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-1fcea55 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">loose metal powder<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-fb55b9c jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">selected high-performance materials under vacuum<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-b2dca52 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Conductivity, particle size distribution, process stability<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-16f27e1\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-2907bcc jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">DED<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-a50ac71 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Powder or wire<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-cb1b28e jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Repair and localised application of material<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-dae82db jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Dosing capability, composition, stable material flow<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-e7aa2f8\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-f635fd0 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Metal Binder Jetting<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-c71d1f9 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Metal powders and binders<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-3fd853e jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">scalable production volumes and a wide range of materials<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-85eabd1 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Packing density, binder compatibility, sintering behaviour<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-53ceb36\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-6b824bc jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Material extrusion<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-50ed4e4 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">bonded metal feedstock<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-befb039 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Tool-free shaping with easier access to the plant<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-cb3e5fc jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Powder-binder matching, homogeneity, sinterability<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody>\n\t\t\t<\/table>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<h2>Which metal powders are used in additive manufacturing?<\/h2>\n<p>The choice of material depends on the component\u2019s function, the process, the equipment, post-processing and the required property profile. Not every powder form of a material is automatically suitable for additive manufacturing.<\/p>\n<p>NMD Metalpowders offers a wide range of <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/\">Metal powders for industry and research<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>For additive applications, the material, grain size and specifications are tailored individually to the planned process.<\/p>\n<h3>Titanium and titanium alloys for lightweight construction and high-load applications<\/h3>\n<p>Titanium combines a comparatively low density with high specific strength and good corrosion resistance.<\/p>\n<p>Additively manufactured titanium components are particularly suitable for applications where weight, load-bearing capacity and complex geometries are key factors.<\/p>\n<p>Our portfolio includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/titanpulver\/\">Titanium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/titanlegierungspulver\/\">Titanium alloy powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/titanpulver-grade-1-2\/\">Grade 1 and 2 titanium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/titanpulver-grade-5-ti-6al-4v\/\">Grade 5 Ti-6Al-4V titanium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Grades 1 and 2 are primarily commercial-grade titanium, whilst Ti-6Al-4V is a widely used titanium alloy for high-stress lightweight applications.<\/p>\n<p>For additive applications, particular attention must be paid to checking the particle size distribution, morphology, oxygen content and plant approval.<\/p>\n<h3>Aluminium and aluminium-silicon for lightweight, thermally conductive components<\/h3>\n<p>Aluminium materials are of interest for lightweight construction, thermal management and components with integrated functions.<\/p>\n<p>Aluminium-silicon alloys are frequently used for complex components due to their machining and casting properties.<\/p>\n<p>Relevant products are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/aluminiumpulver\/\">Aluminium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/aluminium-silizium-pulver\/\">Aluminium-silicon powder<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The specific suitability depends on the alloy, particle size distribution, surface condition and the process used.<\/p>\n<p>Particular attention must be paid to oxidation, dust behaviour and safe handling, especially in the case of aluminium.<\/p>\n<h3>Magnesium and magnesium alloys for ultra-lightweight metal construction<\/h3>\n<p>Magnesium has a very low density and is therefore suitable for applications where weight reduction is particularly important.<\/p>\n<p>At the same time, it is a reactive metal that places high demands on powder quality, the protective atmosphere, storage and safety procedures.<\/p>\n<p>NMD Metalpowders supplies, amongst other things:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/magnesiumpulver\/\">Magnesium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/magnesiumlegierungspulver\/\">Magnesium alloy powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/magnesium-legierungspulver-we43\/\">Magnesium alloy powder WE43<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/magnesium-legierungspulver-az91\/\">Magnesium alloy powder AZ91<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>WE43 is of interest for demanding lightweight construction applications where, in addition to low weight, resistance to temperature and corrosion is also required. AZ91 combines lightweight construction with good workability.<\/p>\n<p>The selection must always be tailored to the plant, process parameters and safety requirements.<\/p>\n<h3>Steel, nickel and molybdenum for heavy-duty industrial components and tools<\/h3>\n<p>Steel powders are among the most versatile materials used in metal additive manufacturing.<\/p>\n<p>They are used, amongst other things, for functional parts, tools, housings and corrosion-resistant components.<\/p>\n<p>Relevant products are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/stahlpulver-316l\/\">Steel powder 316L<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/stahlpulver-1-2709\/\">Steel powder 1.2709<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/nickelpulver\/\">Nickel powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/molybdaenpulver\/\">Molybdenum powder<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>316L is suitable for corrosion-resistant components, whilst 1.2709 is particularly relevant for tool and mould making.<\/p>\n<p>Nickel and nickel-based material systems are suitable for applications subject to thermal and chemical stress.<\/p>\n<p>Molybdenum has a high temperature resistance; however, due to its melting and processing characteristics, it places particular demands on process qualification.<\/p>\n<h3>Copper and silver for electrical conductivity and thermal management<\/h3>\n<p>Copper and silver are of particular interest when electrical or thermal conductivity is a key consideration.<\/p>\n<p>Applications produced using additive manufacturing include, for example, heat sinks, heat exchangers, power distribution systems and specialised electronic components.<\/p>\n<p>Our range includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/kupferpulver\/\">Copper powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/silberpulver\/\">Silver powder<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Pure copper is difficult to process in laser-based processes due to its high thermal conductivity and reflectivity.<\/p>\n<p>The quality of the powder and the plant design must therefore be carefully coordinated.<\/p>\n<h3>Ultra-fine copper powders for delicate and conductive structures<\/h3>\n<p>For specialised applications involving very fine structures, NMD Metalpowders offers a dedicated category for <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/ultrafeine-kupferpulver\/\">ultra-fine copper powder<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The available variants are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/ultrafeines-kupferpulver-uf2\/\">Ultrafine copper powder UF2<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/ultrafeines-kupferpulver-uf3\/\">Ultrafine copper powder UF3<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/ultrafeines-kupferpulver-uf5\/\">Ultrafine copper powder UF5<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These powders can be tested for use in electronics, specialised feedstock applications and precision component structures. However, \u2018ultrafine\u2019 does not automatically mean \u2018better\u2019 for conventional powder bed processes.<\/p>\n<p>As particle size decreases, cohesion, susceptibility to oxidation and handling requirements often increase.<\/p>\n<p>Further information can be found in the technical article <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/kupferpulver-auswaehlen-2026\/\">\u201eChoosing the right copper powder\u201c<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Copper alloys and other industrial metals<\/h3>\n<p>In addition to the established AM material groups, other metals and alloys may be relevant for selected laser-based, sintering-based or research-oriented processes.<\/p>\n<p>These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/bronzepulver\/\">Bronze powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/messingpulver\/\">Brass powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/zinkpulver\/\">Zinc powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/zinnpulver\/\">Tin powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/manganpulver\/\">Manganese powder<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Depending on the specific material, bronze and brass offer an interesting combination of electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance and tribological properties.<\/p>\n<p>Tin, zinc and manganese can be used in selected alloying, sintering and material development processes.<\/p>\n<p>Suitability must be assessed on the basis of alloy composition, process and plant approval.<\/p>\n<h3>Zirconia powder for selected specialised processes<\/h3>\n<p>NMD Metalpowders offers a dedicated category for <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/zirkoniumpulver\/\">Zirconium powder<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/reines-zirkoniumpulver\/\">Pure zirconium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/zirkoniumpulver-cl2\/\">Zirconium powder type 1 CL2<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/zirkoniumpulver-cl3\/\">Zirconium powder type 1 CL3<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Zirconia powder can be tested for selected specialised additive manufacturing and sintering processes.<\/p>\n<p>However, the suitability of CL2 or CL3 cannot be determined solely on the basis of the upper grain size limit.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, morphology, flow properties, chemical composition, plant parameters, the protective atmosphere and the safety concept must be taken into account.<\/p>\n<p>The article explains the differences between the two classes <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/zirkoniumpulver-cl2-oder-cl3-welche-variante-passt-zu-ihrer-anwendung\/\">\u201eZirconium powder CL2 or CL3\u201d<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Nano-metal powders for research and specialised material concepts<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/nano-metal-powder\/\">Nano metal powder<\/a> have special properties due to their very large specific surface area.<\/p>\n<p>They are primarily being investigated in the fields of research, materials development, coatings, pastes and specialised feedstock concepts.<\/p>\n<p>NMD Metalpowders offers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/nano-titanpulver\/\">Nano titanium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/nano-aluminiumpulver\/\">Nano aluminium powder<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Nanopowders are not generally suitable as a direct substitute for conventional powders in traditional powder-bed processes.<\/p>\n<p>Their high reactivity, limited flow properties and specific requirements regarding health and safety and handling must be taken into account in a targeted manner.<\/p>\n<h2>Selection of materials according to requirements<\/h2>\n<p>The following overview provides an initial guide.<\/p>\n<p>It is not a substitute for technical qualification or consultation with the relevant plant and process supplier.<\/p>\n\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"container\" data-elementor-id=\"8506\" class=\"elementor elementor-8506\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a6fbc66 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3a6fbc66\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5c02b1a5 elementor-hidden-desktop elementor-hidden-tablet elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"5c02b1a5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"227\" src=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/scroll-02.svg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-3847\" alt=\"\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-41bb2707 elementor-widget elementor-widget-jet-table\" data-id=\"41bb2707\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_animation_mobile&quot;:&quot;headShake&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"jet-table.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-jet-table jet-elements\">\n\t\t<div class=\"jet-table-wrapper jet-table-responsive-mobile\">\n\t\t\t<table class=\"jet-table jet-table--fa5-compat\">\n\t\t\t\t<thead class=\"jet-table__head\"><tr class=\"jet-table__head-row\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-4211c65 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Requirement<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-398390a jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Suitable material groups for testing<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-7dbf3ab jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"col\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Typical examples of NMD<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<tbody class=\"jet-table__body\"><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-3e21f60\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-67407e3 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Low component weight<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-c59ea93 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Titanium, aluminium, magnesium<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-d03a7ae jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Ti-6Al-4V, aluminium-silicon, WE43, AZ91<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-41b9adb\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-5c7a4f7 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">High specific strength<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-1fcea55 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Titanium and magnesium alloys<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-fb55b9c jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Grade 5 titanium, WE43, AZ91<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-16f27e1\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-2907bcc jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Corrosion resistance<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-a50ac71 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Titanium, stainless steel, nickel<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-cb1b28e jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Grade 1\/2 titanium, 316L, nickel powder<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-e7aa2f8\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-f635fd0 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">High temperature exposure<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-c71d1f9 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Nickel, molybdenum, selected titanium alloys<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-3fd853e jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Nickel powder, molybdenum powder, titanium alloy powder<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-53ceb36\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-6b824bc jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Electrical conductivity<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-50ed4e4 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Copper, silver<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-befb039 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Copper powder, silver powder<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-0767946\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-5167c44 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Heat dissipation<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-f574624 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Copper, aluminium<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-7f02ace jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Copper powder, aluminium powder, aluminium-silicon<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-6646436\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-6bf42c0 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Tool and mould making<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-03b9365 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Tools and stainless steel<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-0fc9abf jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Steel powder 1.2709, steel powder 316L<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-de64e09\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-d14d2bc jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Delicate conductive structures<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-623128d jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Ultrafine copper powder<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-71b2f31 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">UF2, UF3, UF5<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr class=\"jet-table__body-row elementor-repeater-item-9900f58\"><th class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-5244471 jet-table__head-cell\" scope=\"row\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Research and Specialised Applications<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/th><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-bddc2e5 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Zirconium and nano-metal powders<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><td class=\"jet-table__cell elementor-repeater-item-5fc4d24 jet-table__body-cell\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-inner\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-content\"><div class=\"jet-table__cell-text\">Pure zirconium powder, nano-titanium, nano-aluminium<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody>\n\t\t\t<\/table>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>The optimum powder quality also depends on the process, the machine, the layer thickness, the component geometry, post-processing and quality requirements.<\/p>\n<p>Even within the same alloy, different particle sizes or manufacturing processes can lead to variations in process behaviour.<\/p>\n<h2>Sectors in which additive manufacturing creates industrial added value<\/h2>\n<h3>Automotive industry<\/h3>\n<p>In the <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/automobilindustrie\/\">Automotive industry<\/a> Additive manufacturing is used, amongst other things, for prototypes, tools, jigs and fixtures, small-batch production, lightweight construction and thermally optimised components.<\/p>\n<p>One important application is tool inserts with contour-following cooling.<\/p>\n<p>They can dissipate heat more effectively from areas under stress, thereby improving cycle times, mould service life and component quality.<\/p>\n<h3>Aerospace<\/h3>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/luft-und-raumfahrt\/\">Aerospace<\/a> benefits in particular from lightweight construction, a high degree of functional integration and the use of high-quality materials.<\/p>\n<p>Typical material groups include titanium, nickel, aluminium and magnesium alloys.<\/p>\n<p>Due to stringent safety and quality requirements, material qualification, traceability and process documentation are particularly important.<\/p>\n<h3>Machine and tool construction<\/h3>\n<p>In the <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/maschinen-und-werkzeugbau\/\">Machine and tool construction<\/a> Additive manufacturing enables, amongst other things, bespoke tools, cooling channels, spare parts, repairs and functionally integrated components.<\/p>\n<p>This technology can be particularly cost-effective for high-quality components whose conventional manufacture requires numerous machining, joining or assembly steps.<\/p>\n<h3>Electrical Engineering and Electronics<\/h3>\n<p>In the <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/elektrotechnik\/\">Electrical engineering<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/halbleitertechnik-und-elektronik\/\">Semiconductors and electronics<\/a> This is giving rise to new applications for conductive, heat-dissipating and geometrically optimised components.<\/p>\n<p>Examples include heat sinks, heat exchangers, current-carrying components, inductive components and functional components for thermal management. Copper, silver and aluminium play a particularly important role in this context.<\/p>\n<h3>Power generation<\/h3>\n<p>In the <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/energieerzeugung\/\">Power generation<\/a> Additive manufacturing is being investigated and utilised for turbine, heat exchanger, burner and functional components, as well as for repair and refurbishment.<\/p>\n<p>Materials that can withstand temperature, corrosion and mechanical stress are particularly important.<\/p>\n<p>At the same time, internal channels and optimised flow geometries can improve the performance of components.<\/p>\n<h3>Manufacturing industry<\/h3>\n<p>For the <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metal-powder\/verarbeitende-industrie\/\">Processing industry<\/a> Additive manufacturing offers potential for bespoke components, spare parts, small production runs and flexible production concepts.<\/p>\n<p>The greatest added value often stems not from the printing process alone, but from a shorter development time, fewer tools, less complex assembly or improved component performance.<\/p>\n<h2>What purchasers and quality managers should look out for when it comes to metal powders<\/h2>\n<p>A enquiry simply stating \u201emetal powders for 3D printing\u201c is usually not sufficient to make a sound selection.<\/p>\n<p>The more precisely the process, plant and target requirements are described, the more effectively a suitable powder grade can be assessed.<\/p>\n<h3>Key details for an enquiry<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Additive manufacturing:<\/strong> for example, PBF-LB\/M, PBF-EB\/M, DED or binder jetting<\/li>\n<li><strong>Equipment used:<\/strong> Manufacturer, machine type and relevant process parameters<\/li>\n<li><strong>Material or alloy:<\/strong> including the desired chemical composition<\/li>\n<li><strong>Particle size distribution:<\/strong> Desired size range and permissible proportion of fine or coarse particles<\/li>\n<li><strong>Grain shape and morphology:<\/strong> for example, spherical or irregular<\/li>\n<li><strong>Purity and limits for foreign substances:<\/strong> including oxygen, nitrogen or hydrogen, where relevant<\/li>\n<li><strong>Flow properties and density:<\/strong> if specified for the process<\/li>\n<li><strong>Quantity required:<\/strong> Samples, pilot production runs or regular production requirements<\/li>\n<li><strong>Powder form:<\/strong> New powder or requirements for reuse<\/li>\n<li><strong>Packaging and storage:<\/strong> Packaging size, protective atmosphere and transport requirements<\/li>\n<li><strong>Test certificates:<\/strong> Certificates of analysis, batch documentation and traceability<\/li>\n<li><strong>Delivery planning:<\/strong> one-off requirement or ongoing supply<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Early consultation reduces the risk that a chemically suitable material may not be able to be used in the intended process due to unsuitable particle sizes, a lack of flowability or insufficient documentation.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently asked questions about additive manufacturing using metal powders<\/h2>\n\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"container\" data-elementor-id=\"8498\" class=\"elementor elementor-8498\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a6fbc66 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3a6fbc66\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-59b1aad uael-faq-box-layout-yes align-at-left elementor-widget elementor-widget-uael-faq\" data-id=\"59b1aad\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"uael-faq.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div id='uael-faq-wrapper-940' class=\"uael-faq-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-faq-container uael-faq-layout-accordion\" data-layout=\"toggle\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-26a3fd6\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-26a3fd6 uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-1-6a88f70b4f3de\">Which metal powders are suitable for industrial 3D printing?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Titanium, aluminium, steel, nickel and copper materials are frequently used. Depending on the process, magnesium alloys, precious metals, molybdenum, bronze, brass and other speciality powders may also be considered. It is not only the material that is crucial, but also the specific powder quality and its approval for the plant and process.<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-f869c05\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-f869c05 uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-2-6a88f70b4f830\">What particle size is required for additive manufacturing?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>There is no single particle size that suits all processes. PBF-LB\/M, PBF-EB\/M, DED and binder jetting each have different requirements. Layer thickness, the machine, the material and the desired component quality also influence the choice. Finer powder is not necessarily better.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-dff00a4\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-dff00a4 uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-3-6a88f70b4f8c7\">What is the difference between SLM, DMLS and PBF-LB\/M?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>SLM and DMLS are terms commonly used in practice to refer to laser-based powder-bed processes. The standardised generic term is \u2018Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion of Metals\u2019 or \u2018PBF-LB\/M\u2019. However, the specific process strategies and brand names may vary.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-fe6ea6d\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-fe6ea6d uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-4-6a88f70b4f92e\">Is spherical metal powder always the best choice?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>For many powder-bed processes, a spherical morphology is advantageous due to the often improved flow and coating properties. However, other processes can also utilise irregular or differently structured powders. The optimum particle shape depends on the process.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-f42d941\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-f42d941 uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-5-6a88f70b4f98f\">Can metal powder be reused after printing?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>Unprocessed powder may be reused, depending on the material and process. This requires controlled collection, sieving, mixing with new powder where necessary, and regular testing. Permissible reuse must be governed by a defined quality and approval procedure.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-82e9500\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-82e9500 uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-6-6a88f70b4f9ee\">When is additive manufacturing more cost-effective than conventional manufacturing?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>Additive manufacturing is often a viable option for complex geometries, small and medium-sized production runs, a wide range of variants, functionally integrated components, high-quality spare parts and repairs. For simple mass-produced components, conventional manufacturing may still be significantly more cost-effective.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-a189bb2\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-a189bb2 uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-7-6a88f70b4fa4c\">Which metal powders are suitable for particularly lightweight components?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>Titanium, aluminium and magnesium are the materials most commonly used in lightweight construction. The choice of suitable material family depends on strength, temperature, corrosion resistance, component geometry and process approval.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-19d1228\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-19d1228 uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-8-6a88f70b4faaa\">Which metal powder has high electrical or thermal conductivity?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>Copper and silver have particularly high electrical and thermal conductivity. Aluminium is also of interest for lightweight, thermally conductive components. Processability depends on the specific additive manufacturing process and the quality of the powder used.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"uael-accordion-c9d743b\" class=\"uael-faq-accordion\" role=\"tablist\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class= \"uael-accordion-title\" aria-expanded=\"false\" role=\"tab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon uael-accordion-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-closed\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-right\" viewbox=\"0 0 256 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M224.3 273l-136 136c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0l-22.6-22.6c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l96.4-96.4-96.4-96.4c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9L54.3 103c9.4-9.4 24.6-9.4 33.9 0l136 136c9.5 9.4 9.5 24.6.1 34z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-accordion-icon-opened\"><svg class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-angle-up\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M177 159.7l136 136c9.4 9.4 9.4 24.6 0 33.9l-22.6 22.6c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L160 255.9l-96.4 96.4c-9.4 9.4-24.6 9.4-33.9 0L7 329.7c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9l136-136c9.4-9.5 24.6-9.5 34-.1z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-question-c9d743b uael-question-span\" tabindex=\"0\" id=\"uael-faq-9-6a88f70b4fb09\">What information does a supplier need to provide a suitable quotation?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-accordion-content\" role=\"tabpanel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><p>It is helpful to provide details regarding the process, machinery, material, particle size distribution, morphology, purity, quantity required, packaging, test certificates and delivery schedule. The more complete the enquiry is, the more precisely a suitable solution can be assessed.<\/p><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<h2>Finding the right metal powder partner for additive manufacturing<\/h2>\n<p>When sourcing metal powders for additive manufacturing, one should not simply compare the price per kilo.<\/p>\n<p>A powder that appears to be good value for money can end up being expensive if it is not suitable for the plant, has inconsistent properties or results in additional qualification and rework costs.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A suitable metal powder supplier should therefore:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>understand the requirements of different additive manufacturing processes<\/li>\n<li>Considering grain size, morphology and chemical composition together<\/li>\n<li>Be able to source samples and production quantities<\/li>\n<li>Take account of test and batch records<\/li>\n<li>Check alternative sources of supply and powder grades<\/li>\n<li>Treat development projects as confidential<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>NMD Metalpowders assists companies in selecting and sourcing metal powders for industrial and scientific applications.<\/p>\n<p>As an independent partner, we are not tied to any single manufacturer and can test different grades of powder through our international network.<\/p>\n<p>About our <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/services\/customised-powder-solutions\/\">tailor-made powder solutions<\/a> We support you every step of the way, from requirements analysis through to procurement. For particularly sensitive development and procurement projects, we also offer our <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/services\/anonymous-procurement\/\">anonymous procurement<\/a> available.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Do you need metal powder for an additive manufacturing process?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Please submit an enquiry via our <a href=\"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/metallpulver-anfragen\/\">Metal powder form<\/a> and please let us know the planned process, the desired material, the required particle size distribution, the quantity and your documentation requirements.<\/p>\n<p>We are looking into a suitable procurement solution for your application.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Sources and further information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.astm.org\/news\/press-releases\/wohlers-report-2026\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">ASTM International: Wohlers Report 2026<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu\/industry\/advanced-manufacturing_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">European Commission: Advanced Manufacturing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdma.eu\/de\/additive-manufacturing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">VDMA: Additive Manufacturing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/standard\/74514.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">ISO\/ASTM 52900: Fundamentals and Terminology<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/standard\/73565.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">ISO\/ASTM 52907: Characterisation of metallic powders<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/standard\/78527.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">ISO\/ASTM 52928: Powder life cycle management<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/store.astm.org\/f3187-16r23.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">ASTM F3187: Directed Energy Deposition of Metals<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ifam.fraunhofer.de\/de\/technologien\/metal-binder-jetting-vom-prototyp-zur-serienfertigung.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Fraunhofer IFAM: Metal Binder Jetting<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilt.fraunhofer.de\/de\/presse\/pressemitteilungen\/2025\/9-10-af-druckguss.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Fraunhofer ILT: Additive manufacturing of complex die-casting moulds<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"l6ocd\" data-start=\"708\" data-end=\"819\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epma.com\/bosch-invests-6-million\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Bosch: investment of just under \u20ac6 million in the Metal AM Centre in Nuremberg<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"8bw0ud\" data-start=\"822\" data-end=\"934\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epma.com\/ames-joins-hp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">AMES: Metal Binder Jetting for production runs of up to 50,000 parts per year<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Die additive Fertigung hat sich in den vergangenen Jahren grundlegend ver\u00e4ndert. Was lange vor allem mit Prototypen, Einzelteilen und technologischen Machbarkeitsstudien verbunden wurde, entwickelt sich zunehmend zu einem festen Bestandteil industrieller Produktionsstrategien. Unternehmen nutzen metallischen 3D-Druck heute unter anderem f\u00fcr funktionsintegrierte Bauteile, Werkzeuge mit konturnaher K\u00fchlung, hochwertige Ersatzteile, Reparaturen und ausgew\u00e4hlte Serienanwendungen. Dabei geht es [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8519,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8483","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-metallpulver"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8483","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8483"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8483\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8523,"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8483\/revisions\/8523"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8519"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8483"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8483"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nmd-metalpowders.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8483"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}