Obtaining Metal Parts by Additive Manufacturing, as an Alternative to Traditional Manufacturing Methods – A Review

The advantages of Additive Manufacturing (AM) over conventional manufacturing processes are incontestable: complex geometries of obtained parts, wide variety of materials (polymers, composites, low melting metal alloys) used, simple and cost-effective process. Material Extrusion (ME) (piston, filament or screw) is the most widespread AM technology. In this paper, a comparative analysis of different materials used in high reinforcement 3D printing is made. Thus, ceramic and metallic composites, composites with titanium particles, AISI M2 high speed steel powder and Nickel 625 alloy are presented. The conclusion of each study is that increasing powder concentration (up to 65%, by volume) increases parts density (up to 90%), improves sintering process, but narrows process parameters. A balance between raw material properties and processing parameters must be sought to obtain custom parts with optimal properties.