Why Choose Binder Jetting? Experts Give Their Advice!

Binder Jetting is one of the various additive manufacturing processes currently available on the market. It works in a similar way to other 3D printing methods, but it is based on the use of a liquid binder in the form of micro droplets and powder, whether metal, sand, ceramic or even composites. Layer by layer, the desired part is manufactured and, depending on the binder and the powder used, post-processing steps, such as sintering, could be necessary. It is a 3D printing process renowned for its flexibility in terms of materials and design, and for its ability to produce large parts. This makes it a key technology for many manufacturers. But what should be considered when a company wants to integrate binder jetting? What are the strengths and challenges of the technology? Our experts have answered a few questions to shed some light on the topic!

Our first expert is Andreas Müller, Product Manager at ExOne. His main focus is on developing and improving the capabilities of sand 3D printing machines. ExOne is one of the leading manufacturers of binder jetting 3D printers, especially systems using sand. Our second expert is Lefteris Havouzis, Managing Director of Lino3D. The Greek company currently supports companies and manufacturers in their additive manufacturing projects thanks to its expertise in several processes, including metal binder jetting. Finally, our last expert is Vincent Poirier, founder and president of Novadditive, the first custom production center for ceramics in multi-process 3D printing.

How Does Binder Jetting Work?

Like any additive manufacturing process, binder jetting is used to produce a part by superimposing layers of material. In this case, a bed of powder with ideally grains that are ideally spherical and with a diameter of a micrometer. In order for the powder particles to stick to each other, a binder is sprayed onto the plate at the desired locations using a print head. The process is repeated layer by layer until the final object is obtained. Andreas Müller of ExOne adds, “Similar to printing on sheets of paper, the process is repeated layer by layer, using a map from a digital design file, until the object is complete. After printing, an entire job box filled with parts can print in about a half a day, the parts can be removed from the print area. Depending on the material and binder used, additional curing and post-processing steps may be necessary.”