News

A Metal Alloy That’s Easier to 3D Print Thanks to AI

Washington State University researchers used artificial intelligence to 3D print a metal alloy more affordably and efficiently. The project shows how AI is beginning to change additive manufacturing workflows as the technology advances rapidly. The alloy was GRCop-42, a material&

GRCop-42
3Dnatives

Washington State University researchers used artificial intelligence to 3D print a metal alloy more affordably and efficiently. The project shows how AI is beginning to change additive manufacturing workflows as the technology advances rapidly.

The alloy was GRCop-42, a material developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). It is made from copper, chromium and niobium. It is mainly used to produce components for combustion devices because it offers good fatigue strength, very high thermal conductivity and excellent creep resistance.

Despite its considerable application potential, the alloy is very difficult to 3D print. The process requires very high laser power, specialized equipment and substantial resources.