San Diego State University (SDSU) is investigating the anisotropic microstructures in Binder Jetting (BJT) using an InnoventX machine from Desktop Metal. Led by Dr. Eugene Olevsky and Dr. Elisa Torresani, the lab focuses on sintering research and the study of metal and alloy materials in BJT.
Runjian Jiang, a PhD student in the joint doctoral program between the University of California and SDSU, emphasized understanding the BJT process and its effects on material properties during sintering. BJT involves depositing a liquid binder onto a powder bed layer-by-layer to build geometries without using heat, which results in anisotropic properties important for sectors like aerospace, automotive, and medical.
The InnoventX machine, installed in 2024, features an ultrasonic recoater for enhanced powder handling. Initial projects use established stainless steel materials, and Jiang notes the ease of correlating process parameters with final results. Computed Tomography (CT) scanning is utilized to analyze porosity and particle orientation in the builds.
The InnoventX has the capability to produce precision samples less than one millimeter, essential for detailed CT scans. The research aims to deepen the understanding of BJT, potentially influencing material science and engineering across various industries due to BJT’s versatility in processing metals, composites, and ceramics.
Source: metal-am.com
