APPLICATIONS
In additive manufacturing, inerting is crucial to ensure the quality and integrity of printed parts by creating a controlled atmosphere that prevents oxidation and contamination. Argon is commonly used because of its inert nature, effectively displacing oxygen and moisture, which is vital in processes like metal powder bed fusion. Nitrogen is also used, particularly with less reactive metals, to create an inert environment that helps in achieving consistent results. Helium, with its excellent thermal conductivity, is used in high-temperature applications to rapidly cool the printed parts and maintain a stable environment. These gases play essential roles in optimizing the additive manufacturing process, ensuring high-quality, defect-free products.
Learn more about our inerting for additive manufacturing gases and services we offer.
Inerting in additive manufacturing involves using inert gases, such as nitrogen or argon, to create a non-reactive atmosphere during the printing process. This prevents oxidation and other unwanted chemical reactions that could affect the quality of the printed parts.
Inerting is important because it ensures a controlled environment that enhances the quality and consistency of printed parts. It prevents oxidation, contamination, and other defects that can compromise the mechanical properties and appearance of the final product.
Processes such as Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Electron Beam Melting (EBM), and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) benefit from inerting. These processes involve high temperatures and reactive materials that require a protective atmosphere.
The most commonly used inert gases in additive manufacturing are argon and nitrogen. Argon is preferred for its superior inertness, while nitrogen is often used for its cost-effectiveness, depending on the material being processed.
Inerting improves the quality of printed parts by preventing oxidation and other chemical reactions that can lead to defects such as porosity, surface contamination, and compromised mechanical properties. It ensures a clean and stable environment for the additive manufacturing process.
Argon provides a highly inert atmosphere that is ideal for reactive metals and high-temperature processes. It prevents oxidation and contamination, ensuring high-quality, consistent, and defect-free printed parts.
Nitrogen is less expensive than argon and can be effective for certain materials that are less reactive, such as stainless steel. However, argon is generally preferred for more reactive metals like titanium and aluminum due to its superior inertness.
While inerting is primarily used for metal additive manufacturing due to the high reactivity of metal powders, it can also be beneficial for some polymer processes where control of the atmosphere is required to prevent oxidation and contamination.
From the first walkthrough to delivery and beyond, our team is always ready to serve.
Our gas experts walk through your setup to build systems that prioritize safety and efficiency.
No matter the volume or type of gas, our state-of-the-art labs and highly-skilled production teams deliver.
Our drivers consistently perform in high-pressure environments and champion things such as customer care, road, and onsite safety.
Stop paying rent on cylinders that aren’t in your possession. And enjoy sustainable service with less deliveries thanks to telemetry’s mobile alerts, real-time measurements, and usage trends.
The days of chasing invoices and updating billing info are gone — access your account and re-order with confidence (and ease).
Supporting manufacturing, cooling, and cleaning processes, ensuring high-quality computer equipment production.
Fueling propulsion, life support, cooling, and manufacturing processes for high-performance space missions.
Supporting welding, cutting, heating, and manufacturing processes for high-quality automotive production.
GET STARTED
Get in touch to learn more about how we can support your business.
