3DPro® Gas Line - Welcome to Nippon Gases

High-quality gas for a highly technological process

The Additive Manufacturing or 3D Printing process for metal powders is a process that, recently, thanks to the evolution of fiber laser technology, has become more efficient and economically accessible, with rapid market adoption. However, it is a complex process in terms of repeatability, still requiring further studies and improvements to overcome the lack of standards.

List of the most commonly used gases in AM technology

Ar

Sanarc® MR (3DPro®)

He

Elio 5.0 (3DPro®)

N

Azoto Lasersan® (3DPro®)

S

Sanarc®H3 (3DPro®)

Every single material requires a specific shielding gas.

An interesting process, but extremely delicate

Carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or titanium, just to name a few, have different metallurgical characteristics and reactivity to air.

For this reason, the material must be protected throughout the entire 3D printing process. The presence of impurities in the process’s protective atmosphere can create defects in the final product. A defective product results in an economic loss, which is why the use of gas is essential. The gas used will be chosen based on the process and the material in terms of compatibility, and our task is to provide the best solution.

Gas distribution systems

When supplying gas to the 3D printing process, it is essential to understand fluid dynamics.

It is crucial to ensure that the high-purity gas reaches the 3D printer without any change in its quality.

Pressure control panel

It is of vital importance to maintain the quality of gases from the cylinders until their use. The passion and experience of Nippon Gases have been the driving force behind the development of specific equipment for gas management in the Additive Manufacturing process.

How to Choose Additive Manufacturing

Delving into the topic of gases in the 3D printing process, there are many characteristics to consider when choosing which gas to use:

The first characteristic

It is about the type of process (for example, an electric arc, laser, powder bed, etc...) and what the gas is used for.

The second characteristic

It is about determining whether the process takes place in a closed chamber or a flow chamber, whether the same chamber is airtight or not, and the fluid dynamics of the chamber itself.

The third characteristic

It is about knowing whether the metallic material used is in powder or wire form, as the reactivity and hygroscopic characteristics of the material change depending on its form.

The last feature

Finally, if the process is FDM, the gases will be used only in the sintering heat treatment phase.

Our experts are available to provide technological support in all metal 3D printing processes.

3D printing is continuously and rapidly evolving.

We collaborate with 3D printer manufacturers, so we are at the forefront in the use of new materials and experimental processes, and we play an active role in the development of Additive Manufacturing processes.