![]() Then, more powder is spread evenly over the bed, and further layers are generated based on the preset CAD design. As a result, a highly dense layer of fused CoCr powder is generated, which then solidifies upon cooling. This sintering process enables particle diffusion beyond the particle boundaries. The 3D-printing processes of DMLS and SLM are quite similar but differ in particular details.ĭMLS, also referred to as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), directs a high-energy laser onto a bed of CoCr powder and fuses the target particles at a temperature just below the melting point. It is prepared in powder form using the process of gas atomization, which creates ready-to-print spheroidal particles of CoCr. It also results in minimal material waste and enables new manufacturing possibilities that can streamline and shorten the supply process, including rapid prototyping, localized manufacturing, and on-demand production.Ĭobalt Chrome is mainly 3D printed using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) and Selective Laser Melting (SLM) methods. It allows for predetermined surface roughness and is a relatively easy, controllable, and fast process, as the material does not need to be melted and cooled numerous times. This is where 3D printing can surpass traditional manufacturing methods as it not only helps bypass those challenges but also enables the production of lightweight, complex geometries that would be impossible otherwise. These challenges have always been around in traditional manufacturing of cobalt chrome. In addition, its low thermal conductivity can make the cutting process challenging for the cutting tool, as heat is not dissipated through the tool as it usually is with standard steels that are relatively less heat resistant. Those hard spots can cause inconsistencies in machining.Ĭobalt Chrome is also quite abrasive, which can result in wear and shortened lifespan of cutting tools. Its hardness may also vary to reach high levels in particular hard spots. How is Cobalt Chrome used in 3D printing?Ĭobalt Chrome’s high hardness, strength, and toughness make it difficult to machine. Sintering (DMLS), Selective Laser Melting (SLM) The table below shows the main properties of the two most common Cobalt Chrome alloys, Co28Cr6Mo (ASTM F75) and Co35Ni20Cr10Mo (ASTM F562). Cobalt Chrome also has better hot corrosion resistance, higher melting point, and higher thermal fatigue resistance compared to nickel-based alloys. Such mechanical properties come from Cobalt Chrome’s multiphase structure and carbide precipitation, reinforcing its hardness. Those properties include a high strength-to-weight ratio, high tensile and yield points, high hardness, and great toughness. This oxide layer protects the alloy from environmental effects, helping it maintain its mechanical properties. Just like stainless steel, Cobalt Chrome develops its high corrosion resistance by forming a dense and passive oxide layer on its surface (i.e., Chromium oxide). The most commonly used alloys are cast/wrought Co28Cr6Mo and wrought Co35Ni20Cr10Mo. ![]() Cobalt Chrome alloys are generally classified into two categories: What is Cobalt Chrome (Cobalt Chromium alloy)?Ĭobalt Chrome, also known as Cobalt-Chromium or CoCr, is an alloy made mainly of Cobalt ( 53 – 67 %) and Chromium (25 – 32 %) with small added amounts of Molybdenum, Nickel, Tungsten, Silicon, or Aluminum for application-specific strengthening. In this article, we will look into the details of Cobalt Chrome, how it fares against other alloys, how it can be used in 3D printing, and where it is commonly used. Localized manufacturing, rapid prototyping, complex geometries, minimized material waste, and on-demand spare part production have all become possible for Cobalt Chrome with the advent of 3D printing. While maintaining the integrity and properties of Cobalt Chrome, additive manufacturing (AM) has facilitated and boosted its production and use. Metal 3D printing provided a stronger case for Cobalt Chrome. With high toughness, hardness, and strength-to-weight ratio, cobalt-chromium alloys became some of the most common materials in specific applications such as jet engines, gas turbines, and knee implants. It then became highly utilized in the medical industry mainly due to its biocompatibility. Cobalt Chrome is an alloy that was developed initially for the aerospace industry thanks to its excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties.
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