Tekna offers coarse titanium powders developed for PBF-LB Additive Manufacturing

Tekna Holding ASA, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, reports it is now offering coarse titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) powders for Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) Additive Manufacturing.

The company states that the advancement of PBF-LB machines has opened new possibilities for using larger powder sizes, marking a transformative shift in the market. Addressing this emerging demand, Tekna has developed a range of Ti64 coarse powders specifically engineered for PBF-LB applications. The powders are optimised for use with varying layer thicknesses, including 60 µm, 90 µm, and above.

By leveraging its proprietary plasma atomisation technology, Tekna produces Ti64 powders that are reported to be spherical and free from internal porosity. This results in powders with higher density and flowability, which translates into superior mechanical properties in the final manufactured parts. Consequently, this enhances the end-user production yield and part reliability, the company states.

Economic and safety advantages

The use of thicker deposition layers leads to reduced production times, which enhances productivity and lowers the end-user overall production costs. This economic advantage, combined with the reduction in powder costs, makes the process more cost-effective. Furthermore, the ability of the end-user to procure Ti64 coarse powders and finer PBF-LB size fractions manufactured from the same dedicated plasma atomisers accelerates the industrial qualification.

From a safety perspective, finer powders commonly used in PBF-LB applications are often classified as flammable. In contrast, Ti64 coarse powders produced by Tekna have a lower sensitivity to oxygen thus reducing risks related to powder handling and recycling as well as costs associated with storage and transport.

“Our commitment to safety is essential, both for users and the environment. Thanks to their reduced reactivity, Ti64 coarse powders are not classified as flammable and are not sensitive to static electricity, making them safer to handle. This also simplifies logistics, allowing for easier transportation and compliance with local storage regulations. Ultimately, these advancements reflect our dedication to delivering high-quality products that prioritise safety and efficiency at every stage,” shared Rémy Pontone, VP Sales & Marketing at Tekna.

Productivity boost

Ti64 coarse powders can significantly improve productivity. Based on recent qualifications performed on well-known manufacturing platforms, the productivity for a given part increased from 123 cm³/hr at a 60 µm layer thickness to 254 cm³/hr at a 90 µm layer thickness. Manufacturing thicker layers provides better energy dissipation, which contributes to fewer deformations. This reduces the number and complexity of part supports required during manufacturing. It, therefore, contributes to decreased post-processing time and costs.

Compliance with industry standards

Parts manufactured using Tekna’s Ti64 coarse powders reportedly fulfil critical industry standards, including B348-21, F3001, and F136. These compliances highlight the quality and reliability of the produced parts.

Comparison between actual values measured on parts manufactured with Tekna’s Ti64 coarse powders and ASTM B348-21, F3001-14, and F136-13 standards:

Outlook

Tekna’s development of Ti64 coarse powders marks a significant milestone in the Additive Manufacturing industry. As the market continues to evolve, Tekna remains committed to pioneering innovations that drive economic, safety, and productivity advancements, setting new benchmarks for quality and performance.

www.tekna.com

Download PM Review magazine