China - August 22, 2024

Chinese scientists leverage metal 3D printing to upgrade traditional material manufacturing industry

(Voice_over)

Researchers at the Ji Hua Laboratory in south China’s Guangdong Province, are advancing metal 3D printing technology to take additive manufacturing to the next level.

In metal 3D printing, a thin layer of metal particles is spread over a shallow box. A laser heat source then fuses the particles together to create one layer of the object that being built. The process is repeated until the object is complete and emerges, buried under the excess metal powder.

Unlike traditional manufacturing methods, where additional and expensive “machining” tools are needed to build parts, 3D printing makes a complete object in less time and for less money.

(Sound_bite)

Gao Chaofeng, Doctoral student, Institute of Advanced Additive Manufacturing, Ji Hua Laboratory:

"In traditional methods of processing, we need to produce these channels first and then weld them at the corresponding points, which can result in tiny welding defect pores in the welding area. However, 3D printing completely avoids the possibility of welding defects because it is integrally formed. Our whole industry is gradually developing in the direction of larger sizes, more lasers, and higher efficiency."

(Voice_over)

Researchers say, going forward, they plan to focus on developing new materials for additive printing that can lead to the creation of key components for the engineering and aerospace industries.

(Sound_bite)

Bi Yunjie, Deputy director, Institute of Advanced Additive Manufacturing, Ji Hua Laboratory:

"We aim to solve some of the main difficulties in the industry at present, such as improving the quality and performance of products and reducing costs. In the long run, we strive to develop new materials and future technologies in China, especially in equipment such as key components for engines and aerospace fields."

(Voice_over)

Ji Hua Laboratory was established over six years ago and focuses on areas like semiconductor equipment, intelligent robots, high-end medical devices, and advanced manufacturing equipment.

[Restriction: No access Chinese mainland]