To meet the high-tolerance standards required in 3D printing, Argon and Nitrogen are commonly used to provide inert atmospheres. Oxygen transmitters and analyzers are used to control the blanketing gas levels.
At Analytical Industries, we have extensive application knowledge in supplying oxygen sensors, transmitters or analyzers for surface/bulk treatment of metals to help additive manufacturers optimize the gas supply, and purity for improved part processing.
Benefits of manufacturing under protective atmospheres:
- Controlling thermal stress through gradual cooling leads to better quality and prevents part deformation.
- No powder clumping in feed tube
- Lower oxygen content during the printing process reduces oxidation of sintered parts
- Blanket gas purge maintains constant pressure in the print chamber and so allows better results due to creation of a stable printing environment.
- The inerting of combustible dust during powder handling and sieving increases safety