Due to the development of additive manufacturing processes, the metal powder industry has grown significantly in recent years. To achieve physical properties of powder material that meets strict metallurgical requirements for further processing, especially for the additive manufacturing industry, the use of high-quality specialty gases becomes indispensable in many ways.
Atomisation: The number one metal powder production method
There are many methods to produce metal powders from valuable metals and alloys such as titanium, aluminium, stainless steel, iron, copper, nickel base alloys and cobalt base alloys. Atomisation is generally viewed as the best way due to the geometrical properties of the powder particles that can be achieved and thus is ideal for usage in additive manufacturing. For gas atomisation, water atomisation and direct reduction, appropriate gases and gas technologies are required:
- Gas atomisation: argon and nitrogen
- Water atomisation followed by oxide reduction under hydrogen atmosphere
Making quality metal powder
In the atomisation process the melted metal alloys are first refined and degassed, then poured into a gas nozzle, where the liquid material is disintegrated into metal powder by a high-pressure gas stream. Gases such as argon, nitrogen and helium are necessary to prevent excessive oxidation. Linde’s high-pressure gas supply schemes and technologies are used to atomise high-alloy metals to powder particles that are spherical in size and uniform in density.
World-class gas supply options, technology and expertise for powder metallurgy
Linde (former AGA)'s know-how in gases is the perfect foundation for powder metallurgy. As a long-term major provider of applications, solutions, gases and equipment for the processes involved, combined with our commitment to providing a complete service approach to customers, your metallurgical business operation can profit from the following advantages:
- A comprehensive range of industrial and specialty gases as well as gas mixtures
- High-purity gases produced at ISO 9002-accredited facilities
- Technical support specific to powder metallurgy and additive manufacturing applications
- Dedicated support for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and customers
- Optimum process efficiency achieved through dedicated and precise gas control equipment
- Extensive range of supply options tailored to suit customer requirements
- Efficient supply schemes, helping to reduce the processing cost of products
Choosing the right gases for additive manufacturing
