Additive Manufacturing/3D-Printing Of Bulk Metallic Glasses (3D Printing USA 2016)

Since its development in the 1980s, 3D-Printing or Additive Manufacturing has emerged as a powerful tool to process diverse classes of materials including polymers, ceramics and metals. In particular, Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and Electron Beam Melting (EBM) have been proven as promising, future-oriented processing technique for the industrial production of complex-shaped metallic parts. Most commonly, EBM and SLM are performed with conventional crystalline metallic alloys. Recently it has been demonstrated that the processing conditions inherent to SLM also allow processing of a new class of metallic materials with a unique spectrum of properties, i.e. bulk metallic glasses also known as amorphous metals. This talk gives an overview of recent developments and future perspectives in this direction including requirements, challenges and advantages that emerge in dealing with this promising class of materials

Moritz Stolpe is the project leader for amorphous metals in the 3D printing group of Heraeus.

He studied Materials Science and Engineering in Germany, France and Sweden. After having received his diploma in 2011 he worked as a research scientist at the Chair of Metallic Materials at Saarland University where he also obtained his PhD. He has devoted his research efforts to understanding the physics and technology of amorphous metals. In 2016 Moritz joined the 3D printing group of Heraeus New Businesses. Together with his colleagues and partners he explores and develops processes for the 3D printing of amorphous metals.

Heraeus, the technology group headquartered in Hanau, Germany, is a leading international family-owned company formed in 1851. With expertise, a focus on innovations, operational excellence and an entrepreneurial leadership, we strive to continuously improve our business performance.

We create high-quality solutions for our clients and strengthen their competitiveness in the long term by combining material expertise with technological know-how. Our ideas are focused on themes such as the environment, energy, health, mobility and industrial applications. Our portfolio ranges from components to coordinated material systems which are used in a wide variety of industries, including the steel, electronics, chemical, automotive and telecommunications industries.

In the 2015 financial year, Heraeus generated revenues without precious metals of €1.9 bn and a total revenue of €12.9 bn. With approximately 12,500 employees worldwide in more than 100 subsidiaries in 38 countries, Heraeus holds a leading position in its global markets.