3D Printing

Laser powder bed additive printing process is compatible with Hastelloy X

VELO3D announced the commercial release of a production process for additively manufactured parts in Hastelloy X. This is a nickel-based alloy, suitable for the laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF) process, that is resistant to corrosion cracking and oxidation. Hastelloy X is often used to manufacture parts for gas turbine engines for combustion zone components due to its high-temperature strength.

Unicore of a 20-kilowatt microturbine engine, being developed by Sierra Turbines, that was 3D printed on a VELO3D Sapphire metal AM system. The nickel-based alloy is resistant to corrosion cracking and oxidation and is most often used to manufacture parts for combustion-zone gas turbine engines due to its high-temperature strength. Image courtesy VELO3D

Air mobility and power generation pioneer Sierra Turbines recently partnered with VELO3D to print a prototype for their 20-kilowatt microturbine engine with a unicore in Hastelloy X. They aim to print 95% of their engine through metal additive manufacturing, taking advantage of the design freedom possible through VELO3D’s SupportFree process.

The patented SupportFree process enables geometric freedom, which reduces the consideration of support structures for complex passageways, shallow overhangs, and low angles. Coupled with a non-contact recoater, the printing process can create intricate cooling passageways and fuel delivery channels needed for high-output fluid transmission and electrical power.

The company recently announced that a 1-meter tall system will be available in Q4 2020. For the first time with laser powder-bed fusion, meter-tall parts can be printed without support structures, creating new part opportunities for industrial applications.

VELO3D’s Sapphire metal AM printer is now compatible with Titanium64, INCONEL® alloy 718, Aluminum F357, and Hastelloy X. Please complete this form if you would like to inquire about printing a prototype.

VELO3D
www.VELO3D.com