#IamDAP: HP Metal Jet S100

Hey Metal Jet S100, great to have you here! Tell us, how did you end up at the DAP?

Hello there! I’m happy to be here too. My way to the DAP was actually quite exciting. I came here through a DFG funding to advance research in the field of Metal Binder Jetting. Now I’m ready to get started and show my strengths!

What exactly is your job at the DAP?

My job is to produce complex metal parts using Metal Binder Jetting (BJT-MSt/M). I pay particular attention to precision and efficiency, especially with materials that are difficult to weld or highly reflective. By precisely controlling the application of the binder, I create complex geometries that would be almost impossible using other methods. I ensure that the resulting components have high dimensional accuracy and density, making them ideal for demanding applications.

Can you explain how Metal Binder Jetting works and how it differs from other powder-based processes?

Of course! In Metal Binder Jetting, I apply fine metal powder layer by layer onto a build platform. A liquid binder is then applied precisely to the powder layer to bind the powder particles locally. This process is repeated layer by layer until the entire component is built. The part needs to cure after the process, resulting in what is known as a ‘green part’. The part then undergoes a sintering process in a special furnace: the green part is heated, causing the metal particles to densify and form a solid bond without fully melting.

Unlike other powder-based processes, such as laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) or electron beam melting, where lasers or electron beams fuse the powder particles directly, MBJ solidifies during the sintering process. In my case, the binder holds the metal particles together during the printing process before they form a permanent bond during sintering. This makes my approach particularly flexible in terms of material selection and allows for the efficient production of complex components.