Gefertec developed the 3DMP additive manufacturing process, which is based on electric arc welding and therefore benefits from wire as the original material. The near-net-shape part is formed from an accumulation of welding layer upon welding layer. After 3D printing, the part can be machined accordingly by milling. For larger parts, this technology is faster and more cost effective compared with other methods based on powder as the original material, says Gefertec.
The result of the arc welding process depends heavily on various parameters – especially the process gas, hence the co-operation with Linde.
Actual 3D printing as part of the project remit will take place at the additive manufacturing laboratory of Fraunhofer IGCV – the fourth co-operation partner, where Gefertec has installed a 3D-printing system. Here, the influence of welding parameters and process gas on the parts will be closely examined. The final goal of the project is the production of larger parts (at high production speed) made from titanium alloy Ti6Al4V that meet the quality requirements of the aerospace industry.
