With the development of science and technology and the need for promotion and application, the direct manufacturing of metal functional parts using rapid prototyping has become the main development direction of rapid prototyping. At present, the main metal 3D printing processes that can be used to directly manufacture metal functional parts include: Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), etc.

So what are the main applications of metal 3D printing? Let’s take a brief look.

At this Automotive Advanced Manufacturing Technology Summit, Protosoon brought various automotive parts and prototypes manufactured using 3D printing technologies to help promote intelligent automotive manufacturing.

Print Example: Engine parts, grid rudder, etc.

Metal 3D printing is emerging as a potential game-changer in manufacturing, creating complex components that can be tailored for specific energy applications. This manufacturing technology ensures design flexibility and improves energy efficiency. At the same time, it allows for rapid prototyping, which helps accelerate the development of new energy technologies and improves the reliability and efficiency of existing energy systems. Its on-demand manufacturing capabilities also help reduce the cost of maintaining energy infrastructure.

Print Example: Gas turbine components, metal impellers, etc.

Metal 3D printing technology continues to mature, bringing far-reaching impacts to the automotive manufacturing and modification industries. Unlike traditional manufacturing processes such as milling, spraying, stamping and casting, 3D printing can produce products of any shape, including innovative lightweight components with cavity or honeycomb structures, which has aroused great interest from major automakers and modifiers.

Print Example: Braking system, ignition system, door hinges, etc.

The pharmaceutical and biological industry is currently the industry where 3D printing technology is expanding most rapidly. 3D printing technology can provide more complete personalized solutions for the medical and biological industry; especially in terms of personalized solutions, typical applications include 3D surgical pre-planning models, surgical guides, 3D printed implants, and rehabilitation medical devices such as prostheses and hearing aids.

Print Example: Surgical guides, dental implants, prostheses, etc.

3D printing technology has eliminated the eternal contradiction between originality and scarcity in art. Its breakthroughs in modeling freedom, time and cost have opened up a new world for art practitioners.

Print Example: Designer homewares, sculptures and more

Metal 3D printing, with its ability to create molds with complex conformal cooling channels, is revolutionizing the moldmaking industry. Cooling channels are essential in metal injection molding tools so that parts can be cooled faster and more evenly. The cooling phase accounts for 70% to 80% of the total cycle time, so reducing this time over the life cycle of the mold can save manufacturers a lot of money. Proper cooling also affects the dimensional accuracy, surface quality and mechanical properties of the final product.

Print Example: Molds with complex conformal cooling channels

Among the many sports applications, 3D printed bicycles are undoubtedly the most widespread. Using 3D printing technology can make a lighter, faster and more comfortable bicycle while reducing manufacturing time and costs. The most commonly used are metal or composite materials 3D printing because they have higher hardness. In addition, through 3D scanning, accessories such as bicycle helmets, seats or handlebars can be customized.

Print Example: Frame, pedal bracket, handlebars, spare parts, etc.

Metal 3D printing can directly print metal jewelry. It is an additive manufacturing process based on 3D CAD design, using a 3D CAD file as the digital information source and energy setting, and a high-power laser beam to sinter very tiny metal powder layers into a three-dimensional component.

Print Example: Bracelets, rings, necklaces, pendants, etc.

If you want to try 3D printing and bring new momentum and opportunities to your industry, or if you want to find a reliable and reasonably priced parts and prototype manufacturer, you can consult our experts online or click here to send us an email.