APRIL 202319MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY INSIGHTSheat treatments, as well as applications where only simple stress relief after component production is required. Höganäs also provides printing parameters and heat treatment recommendations to ensure the end results will meet, or even exceed expectations."We are one of the pioneers in introduction of construction steels in AM industry," explains Oshchepkov. "Our products open up new opportunities for production of spare parts and components in sectors such as automotive, heavy construction equipment, mining and tooling. Even small individual reductions in total emissions from manufacturing can make a big difference." Using construction steels for AM benefits sustainability in a number of ways. Not only does it help to control the use of valuable resources and improve process efficiency, but the resulting parts can also be more durable. This means the parts last for longer periods before replacements are required, which reduces waste and, in turn, carbon emissions. The parts that do eventually reach end-of-life are also easier to recycle and reuse than their aluminium-alloy-based counterparts, further improving overall sustainability and reducing environmental impact.EMBRACING THE FUTURE FASTERIn addition to the sustainability benefits, this new class of AM materials can also help businesses develop new solutions more quickly, and in turn experience the benefits sooner than they would with alternative methods. This is because the process is much shorter ­ the designer creates 3D file, chooses the required grade of construction steel, and then it can be printed and tested. In broader terms, this will mean all industries can evolve faster than before. It also means designers and engineers are more empowered to make bold decisions, as each prototype isn't as big of an investment in terms of time or money."We're confident that our construction steel powders will benefit industry, and the industrialization of AM itself," says Stanley. "We've designed them to offer heat treatment processes similar to wrought construction steels while offering all benefits of additive manufacturing technology. This means more businesses can make the switch to AM without making any sacrifices but, instead, experience the many associated benefits."Additive manufacturing is already making positive impact in many sectors. Now, without the limitations seen in the past, it can also bring these benefits to the industries where low-alloyed construction steels are essential. With Höganäs leading the initiative, the powder products will only go from strength to strength. Being able to produce spare parts on-demand means it is possible to reconsider the need for spare parts inventory, which leads to both economical gain and improved sustainability
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