Additive Manufacturing Materials Guide
Numerous materials are used for additive manufacturing. The materials used for Additive Manufacturing are as different as the products that result from the process. As such, Additive Manufacturing is adequately adaptable to permit makers to decide the shape, texture and strength of a product. Best of all, these qualities can be accomplished with far fewer steps than what is normally expected in conventional methods of production. Moreover, these products can be made with various kinds of 3D printing materials.
PLASTIC
Out of all the raw materials for Additive Manufacturing in use today, plastic is the most common. Plastic is one of the most diverse materials for 3D-printed parts.
Polymer 3D Printing Materials
The polymer 3D printing process utilizes materials such as:PA12 (Nylon 12)
- PA12 (Nylon 12) – High strength, flexibility, and excellent surface finish
- PA11 – Superior ductility and impact resistance, ideal for functional parts
- Glass-filled Nylon – Enhanced stiffness and thermal stability
- PA 603-CF – Carbon fiber PA12: ultra-stiff, lightweight, extreme strength & heat resistance
All materials are selected based on mechanical performance, thermal properties, and application-specific requirements — ensuring durability, precision, and reliability in every print.
METAL
Metal is the second most used material in additive manufacturing, produced through Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). This precision process is widely adopted in aerospace, automotive, medical, and industrial sectors to create complex, high-strength, lightweight components with near-net-shape accuracy. Many believe 3D printing can deliver metal parts stronger than conventionally manufactured ones.
The range of metals that are applicable to the LPBF technique is just as diverse as the various 3D printer plastic types:
- Titanium: Ideal for aerospace brackets and lightweight structural components.
- Stainless-steel: Ideal for industrial valves, pump components, and corrosion-resistant tooling
- Cobalt Chrome F75: Ideal for biocompatible implants and turbine blades.
- CuCrZr: Suitable for high-conductivity heat exchangers and rocket nozzles.
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Nickel alloys (e.g., Inconel): Suitable for high-temperature turbine blades and rocket engine components.
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Aluminum: Ideal for thin-walled, lightweight structures.
