Liquid metal printing: A breakthrough in industrial 3D tech
3D printing technology is rapidly advancing across various industrial sectors, although early methods had their share of flaws. However, scientists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have introduced an innovative technique for printing with liquid metal, opening up new possibilities in the tech industry.
15 November 2024 11:42
While 3D printers using liquid metal already exist, previous technologies were limited by their slow pace. Specialists from MIT have developed a new method that overcomes these limitations, offering a faster and more efficient process.
Scrap gets a second life
The innovative method, named LMP (liquid metal printing), involves spreading liquid metal on a surface covered with tiny glass beads. As a result, large elements can be created in a few seconds, and the metal hardens in minutes.
The device designed with this technology includes a furnace for melting aluminum, an ideal material due to its widespread use in construction and low recycling cost. Aluminum remains in a liquid state within a heated container, and a special nozzle precisely spreads the metal onto the surface with beads measuring 0.004 inches in diameter. This allows for rapid hardening as the microscopic beads absorb heat.
According to data from the MIT team, LMP technology is significantly faster than previous liquid metal printing methods. This process is more energy-efficient and allows for using aluminum scrap, adding an ecological aspect. While the precision of models may be reduced, the material is sturdy enough for further processing, such as milling.
Does the new technology have the potential to ease daily life?
Skylar Tibbits, an associate professor at the MIT Department of Architecture and co-director of the Self-Assembly Lab, emphasizes that this innovative technique introduces a new perspective in metal production. He highlights that although the method is not without its flaws, its speed, scalability, repeatability, and energy efficiency are advantages that could revolutionize contemporary industry.
Despite needing further refinement, scientists are working to improve the even heating of the nozzle to prevent metal adhesion. They are also developing ways to enhance the consistency of prints using larger nozzles.
While the LMP printer is primarily an industrial tool, it has demonstrated the ability to print structural elements such as chairs and tables, showcasing its potential. Scientists suggest that this technology could find extensive applications, for instance, in the aerospace and automotive industries, especially for prototype creation.
