Renishaw, a global leader in engineering technologies, has expanded the materials portfolio for its RenAM 500 series of metal additive manufacturing (AM) systems, introducing new options like commercially pure copper, H13 tool steel, Hastelloy X alloy, super-duplex stainless steel, and AlSi7Mg aluminum alloy. For the first time, Renishaw’s material data sheets include results from Plastometrex’s PIP (Profilometry-based Indentation Plastometry) testing. This advanced method offers rapid, precise evaluations of mechanical properties, complementing existing testing protocols.
This expansion aims to meet evolving customer demands and opens up innovative applications across various industries. The new materials were developed in collaboration with customers, enabling laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) systems to accommodate more diverse applications.
Renishaw also introduced new powder layer thicknesses for existing materials, including 90 μm titanium grade 23, 70 μm stainless steel 316L, and 120 μm Inconel 718, which allow for higher material build rates.
Marc Gardon, EMEA Additive Manufacturing Applications Manager, highlighted the relevance of new materials such as H13 tool steel, Hastelloy X alloy, and super-duplex stainless steel, specifically developed for industries like tooling, aerospace, and energy in Spain and Portugal, including SIMOLDES, ITP Aero, and ADDIMEN.
Each material in the expanded portfolio addresses unique industry needs:
- Pure copper offers high thermal and electrical conductivity, ideal for consumer electronics and heat exchangers.
- AlSi7Mg aluminum alloy is a lightweight, high-strength option suited for aerospace and automotive applications.
- H13 tool steel provides superior thermal fatigue and high heat resistance for high-temperature environments.
- Hastelloy X and super-duplex stainless steel are excellent for oil and gas and chemical processing due to their superior corrosion resistance and strength.
