#Powder bed fusion

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Producing high-performance titanium alloy parts -- whether for spacecraft, submarines or medical devices -- has long been a slow, resource-intensive process. Even with advanced metal 3D-printing techniques, finding the right manufacturing conditions has required extensive testing and fine-tuning. What if these parts could be built more quickly, stronger and with near-perfect precision? A team comprising experts from the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland, and the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering is leveraging artificial intelligence to make that a reality. They've identified processing techniques that improve both the speed of production and the strength of these advanced materials -- an advance with implications from the deep sea to outer space.

Read more.

[soumyafwr]

Powder Bed Fusion Market 

[theboywithburninghands]

Part 2 of my standalone Funnybunny piece. Less angsty, more fun, still pretty heavy. I love it. Hope you will too. T/W: Mentions of drugs and alcohol, self-hatred

“You’re going to be okay, right?”

Pomni looked up at Jax. The two of them hadn’t said a word to each other since leaving his room. Thunder boomed and churned. 

“Yeah,” was Jax’s paltry reply. Pomni swallowed, from nerves and from her enduring thirst. She couldn’t chew on her gloves due to one gripping Jax’s hand and the other the lighter. She chewed on her lower lip instead. 

“You… don’t have to stay for very long. I told you I’m dogwater at social stuff, so I won’t force you to do too much. Okay?” 

“Okay,” Jax replied.

Pomni felt frustration stir in her belly. One-word answers were the bane of her existence. For the life of her, she couldn’t tell what someone was feeling if they only said “yeah” or “nah” or “fine.” Was Jax angry with her? Tired? Ashamed? Some awkward fusion of all three? …Well. That would have to be put on hold. She released Jax’s hand, the rabbit tucking his hand back into his pocket, and opened the door to Ragatha’s bedroom. 

“ Pomni! And-And Jax, you’re back! Is everything okay?”

Ragatha hurried over to Pomni, stepping carefully over her blankets and pillows. She had evidently been trying to make a blanket fort in near-total darkness, without much success. 

“Yeah. We talked.” Pomni said. 

“More like screamed.” came a dry and annoyed voice. Zooble was resting on Ragatha’s empty bed. “We could hear you from all the way down the hall. I think the only thing louder than you was the storm.”

There was a faint burble of thunder. Apparently it agreed.

“I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to scare you guys. I just…”

“Don’t worry, Pomni. You brought light with you.” 

Kinger ignited the wick of a long, white candle using the lighter in Pomni’s hand. He stared at the flame it created intently for a moment, before he stuck it on an old fashioned brass chamberstick, the kind with a finger loop you always saw people in silk pajamas use to look around their dark manor in old movies. He cupped the flame and brought it over to some of the candles that had fallen on the floor, setting the chamberstick down on Ragatha’s hutch so he could plate the other candles.

“You should thank Jax. He had a change of heart even before I yelled at him.” Pomni said with a nervous chuckle. 

Jax blew a raspberry through his lips and went over to help Kinger light the other candles. Pomni chewed on her glove. 

“Thank you for bringing the lighter back, Jax…” Gangle said softly. She clutched a stuffed zebra for security. “I-I don’t do so well in the dark…” 

“Whatever.” Jax replied without turning around. 

“I think that’s Jaxenese for ‘you’re welcome.’” Ragatha said with a smirk. 

“Say, why is this candle blue?” Kinger asked, holding up a squat, already lit powder-blue one in a glass jar. 

“Oh, that’s one of my scented ones. Blue citrus, it’s really nice. Leave it going for a bit.” Ragatha delicately took the candle and placed it on her table.

In time, the performers eventually had all the candles going, safely burning on sticks, sconces or small glass plates to keep any wax from dripping onto the floor. Kinger went and retrieved his camping stove, which thankfully had enough white gas left in it to get started. Ragatha filled her tea kettle with a gallon jug of drinking water she kept stowed away under her bed, setting it gingerly on the camping stove. She set about putting ginseng tea bags in her white china cups, handing them to everyone on saucers as a plume of steam began to issue from the kettle. The room smelled pleasantly of orange. 

“I know it’s a little cliché, but I love tea. Especially with my secret ingredient.” 

“Booze?” Zooble asked. Pomni couldn’t help but snort. Ragatha chuckled as well. 

“No, no. I don’t really have a name for it. At least not yet.” Ragatha went over to a small fridge that resembled a toy chest. 

“Shrooms? That’d be awesome.” Zooble sighed. Gangle stifled a giggle this time.

“Zooble, stop it.” Ragatha tisked with a hand on her hip. “You would not wanna do magic mushrooms in the middle of a blackout, trust me.”

“She’s right…” Gangle agreed. Zooble shot her a suspicious look just as Ragatha retrieved a small thermos from the fridge, shutting the door quickly to not let the cold out.

“Alright, everyone bring me your cups.” Ragatha said, taking the kettle off of Kinger’s stove with a pink and white checkered potholder. Thunder rumbled. 

Everyone gathered around Ragatha’s table as she poured hot water into their cups, the water turning deep amber as it mixed with the hot tea leaves. She bobbed the string in everyone’s cups to let out some additional flavor before discarding the hot wet bags and opening her thermos. She retrieved an elegantly patterned silver spoon from her tea set and stirred the contents of the thermos. After a moment she scooped out a heaping spoonful of what looked like purple clotted cream, dolloping it into her own cup and stirring until the tea was a pleasant, dull lavender color. She put a significantly smaller amount into every other cup, humming tunelessly. She smiled and held up her own cup after finishing. 

“Hope you enjoy! Drink it slow to savor the taste.” Ragatha gently blew away the steam drifting from her own cup and took a sip, sighing in contentment. 

Pomni blew on hers as well and sampled the tea. Whatever Ragatha’s secret ingredient was, it contained a lot of sugar and cream. It was almost like drinking a slice of birthday cake, but with a flutter of herbs she didn’t recognize. Not bad at all, but a little too rich to have more than one cup. 

“Mmm!~ This is so good!” Gangle cried. Zooble, on the other hand, spluttered.

 “Oh jeez…” they said in between coughs.

“Aw, you don’t like it?” Ragatha asked, smiling politely yet with a twinge of disappointment. 

“No it’s- it’s good it’s-” Zooble hacked and coughed. “I just wasn’t expecting like… A blast in the face from the sugar cannon. I- ahem, usually take my coffee black or my tea plain…”

“Oh man, that’s hardcore, Zooble.” Pomni said. “I at least need a little sugar in mine…”

“I’m with Pompom. It’s almost like plain coffee tastes bad.” Jax said. He sipped from his cup and looked down at it with a slightly crinkled face. “Yeah, this is like, crazy sweet though.” 

“Well you aren’t spraying it across the room, so I’ll take that as a win.” Ragatha replied, smiling proudly. 

Kinger finished his entire cup in a few gulps, holding it out to Ragatha. “More please.”

“Woah! Easy there, Kinger!” Ragatha held out a hand to slow him down. “I’m glad you like it but you’re gonna burn your throat. Plus this is ginseng, so it’ll give you energy.”  

“Oh, that actually makes a lot of sense. You stay peppy by consuming truckloads of caffeine.” Jax tapped his cup for reference. 

Ragatha giggled. “Caffeine does help. But counting your blessings and staying positive every day helps even more.” 

“Yyyyyyyeah, I’ll stick with the caffeine thanks.” Jax took a sip of his tea, squinting his eyes a bit at the sweetness. 

Pomni smiled. He was getting back to his old self. If he kept his humor to light-hearted ribbing, he was pleasant. Charming, even. She sipped her tea.

After everyone had finished, Gangle, Kinger and Ragatha going back for a second cup, Ragatha taught them the basics of making a blanket fort. While Pomni normally wouldn’t have been interested, not having any sort of caffeine or similar stimulant in months had caught up to her; her head was humming and she needed something to do. She listened to all of Ragatha’s instructions carefully, and went to get her blanket from her room along with the others. Kinger accompanied Gangle to her bedroom, the ribbon girl still paranoid about the dark even with a candle to light her way.

Jax proved himself useful at tying the blankets together. It seemed that in addition to making him a skilled lockpicker, his nimble fingers allowed him to make pretty complicated knots on his first or second try. He hardly required any instruction on how to tie them either. Maybe it was the ginseng helping him focus, Pomni wondered to herself. 

Soon, their fort was complete. It was a little on the cramped side, especially when it was filled up with pillows,  but all six of them could fit if they packed together like sardines. Pomni, cautious of having to squeeze up alongside people, opted for a seat at the end, Jax on her left and the fort’s exit on her right. She didn’t mind being close to Jax… 

“Well, this is great! I feel snug as a bug in here!” Ragatha declared. 

“It’s nice enough.” Zooble admitted. “Beats whatever stupid-@$$ thing Caine had planned.”

“When do you guys think he’s coming back? He’s not gonna be mad is he?” Pomni asked. 

“He doesn’t really get mad very much. He tries to keep the kid-friendly persona up all the time, so he can’t be too threatening, y’know?” Jax said. From how close they were sitting, Pomni could feel the vibrations of his voice on her left arm. 

“Besides, I think he’ll be proud we managed to have a little adventure together even with the electricity not working properly.” Ragatha added. 

“I just wish there was a way to bring light into our fort…” Gangle sighed. “I know it’s not safe to bring candles in here, but it’s so dark…”

Thunder sounded out from beyond the blankets, still quite loud but not nearly as frequent and quaking as before. 

“Hey, you know it’s funny you say that?” Jax said. He took a moment to reach into the pocket of his overalls and retrieve a small, tube-shaped item. There was a click and a cone of light shone from one end of the tube, causing everyone to squint.

“Jax, is that a flashlight..?” Ragatha asked, shielding her eye with one hand.

“You had a flashlight on you this whole time and didn’t tell us?!” Zooble groused. 

“Hey, I forgot I had it until I got back into my room. Why do you think I was so willing to give Jingles my lighter?” Jax tousled Pomni’s coxcomb hat, shaking the bells in it. “Besides, I was waiting for a moment like this-”

Jax held the lit end of the flashlight under his chin, turning his face into an eerie black and white silhouette with shaded eyes. 

“-to tell you guys a little story.”

Gangle let out the same sustained whine she did when the power first went out. 

“Jax, come on, no ghost stories.” Ragatha held out her hand in a “halt” motion. 

“Aw, whaaat?” Jax took the light off of his face. “You’re kidding, it’s an essential slumber party activity. Unless we were gonna sit around and talk about boys.”

“I’d rather we do that…” Gangle admitted, holding her stuffed zebra a little closer. 

“Real boys, Gangle. Not anime boys.” Jax drawled. “Come on, just one story. I promise I’ll go easy on you.” 

“I wouldn’t mind hearing it.” Kinger said.

“Sure, whatever.” Zooble grunted.

“Noooooo…” Gangle mewled, squeezing her zebra with all her strength.

Pomni smiled a bit. “Gangle, I think he really means it this time. You promise you won’t scare us too bad, Jax?” 

“Well I can’t promise-”

He paused for a second.

“Yeah, I promise.” 

“...Okay.” Gangle sighed. Ragatha reached a hand over to hold one of her ribbons, which she gladly accepted.

“Eeexcellent…” Jax held the light under his chin, giving a huge, jack-o-lantern grin. “Then let’s get started.”

The rabbit cleared his throat. 

“There once was a 10-year-old boy, we’ll call him Paul, that lived near a pretty big set of woods. It was meant to be cleared for more houses, but there was some sort of issue with zoning or maybe the HOA, you know how these things go. Paul’s house was right next to it, and since the city wasn’t doin’ anything with it, he decided to explore it. “Now Paul loved it out there. Even though it was only a wedge of land a little less than a mile long, he had the whole place mapped out. He knew where every fallen tree to balance on was, he knew where every gully was so he never fell into ‘em, he knew where all his favorite hidden clearings and funny looking bushes were. 

“But, like any 10-year-old, he would forget stuff out there sometimes. Nothin’ too bad at first, he’d forget a comic book out there, then find it again a few days later with spots of mold on it, or maybe he’d bring his lunchbox out there with some snacks and forget it, so his mom would have to wash it when he finally found it on a stump or something. “Now there was one Saturday, in April, where he went out in the morning to play. He had his jacket on since the mornings could still be a little bit chilly in the early spring. But, as the sun got higher in the sky, the day got warmer. So, he took his jacket off and hung it on a branch. 

“Not long after he did that though, his mom called him inside to do his weekend chores before he went over to a friend’s house, and he went running back home, leaving his jacket, forgotten, on the branch.”

There was a rumble of thunder, Jax’s smile only growing wider with a dark chuckle.

“So, he goes to his friend’s house, comes home, does his homework, plays some video games, and goes to bed. He’s got church tomorrow morning after all, he can’t stay up too late, and he’s tired. He had a busy day. So, he lays down in bed and falls asleep within minutes. 

“One o’clock in the morning. Paul wakes up and has to go to the bathroom. On his way back though, he hears a noise. He looks down the stairs to see that the front door is creaking open. No one locked their doors around here, it was a safe neighborhood. He figures it might be his parents back from some kind of get-together with their friends. But what comes inside…

“Oh, it isn’t his parents.” Jax let out another grim chuckle, Ragatha squeezing Gangle’s ribbon a little bit tighter.

“What shuffles into the house is a good eight feet tall with long, scarecrow-like limbs, covered in mud and leaves from the woods, piercing bright yellow eyes peering out from filthy, bug ridden hair. It tracks mud on the hardwood floor with every step it takes, leaving behind three toed footprints. It looks up the stairs, and it sees Paul! 

“Paul runs for his bedroom, but he can hear the creature snarl through a clotted throat and fall onto all fours, loping up the stairs far, FAR faster than Paul could run. Paul skids to a stop in front of his door, seeing the creature’s horrible eyes leering at him from the top of the stairs. He runs inside his room and tries to slam the door shut, but a hand tipped with three dirty talons catches the edge of the door before he can shut it. “It’s so much bigger and stronger than he is, and it throws the door open, slamming it hard against his bedroom wall. It has to stoop to fit into his bedroom, never once taking those awful, piercing eyes off of him. Paul falls onto the floor and covers his eyes, waiting for the teeth to clamp down on his head or those horrible claws to tear him limb from limb! “The creature reaches onto its back, pulling something off of its body. A weapon to stab him with or- “A jacket. The creature dropped Paul’s filthy jacket onto the bedroom floor with a wet flop.  

“‘Quit leavin’ your stuff on my property, stupid.’ it grunts, before turning and bowing out the door, down the steps and into the night.”

Everyone was quiet for a second before Ragatha started laughing. Gangle joined in, then Pomni did as well. Jax handed the flashlight over to Gangle and relaxed, putting his hands behind his head. 

“That was a good story, Jax! I liked it a lot better than the one about the babysitter.” Ragatha said. 

“Or the one about the dog…” Gangle said. She seemed to have surprised herself with how hard she had laughed, as she hiccuped soon after. 

“Hey now, this story has a moral,” Jax said from his reclining position. “What, respect nature? Don’t leave important stuff behind?” Zooble asked, barely interested. 

“Nah. Don’t be a ten-year-old.”  Again, there was a ripple of somewhat awkward laughter amongst the performers. They weren’t used to Jax making jokes that weren’t… cruel. Snarky as hell, sure, but these were… actually pretty funny. It was… nice to have him around. 

Pomni touched his leg. He opened one eye and glanced down at her glove, then back up at the jester. Even in the dim light, her blush was noticeable. “So what do we do now? Anyone got anything they want to talk about..?” Ragatha asked. “I dunno. I’d say we could nap, but I’m still a little wired from your tea. What else do you do at a slumber party?” Pomni scratched her cheek. “I could teach you guys how to make paper stars! Or maybe we could-”

There was a great swoosh of movement as the top blanket was yanked off of their fort. “HELLO EVERYONE! GLAD TO SEE YOU’RE DOING WELL!” Caine held the blanket in one hand and his cane in the other, hovering above the group and giving off his own light. Everyone jolted, Pomni pressing herself against Jax. Jax instinctively put a hand around her. “Well, we were …” Jax drawled. “What do you want, Caine?”

“The lights are still off… no luck fixing whatever needs fixing..?” Zooble asked. “Also, that’s my blanket.” 

“APOLOGIES, ZOOBLE! HERE YOU GO!” Caine hurled the blanket at Zooble like a cannonball, knocking them into their pillows with a shocked and incensed “OW.” 

“Caine, what’s-” Pomni noticed she was in Jax’s arms. “Uh… I um…” 

Jax looked down and smirked proudly. 

“EXCELLENT QUESTION POMNI! BUBBLE AND I HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK TRYING TO FIX OUR LITTLE POWER ISSUE! ISN’T THAT RIGHT, BUBBLE?!”

Bubble emerged from within Caine’s hat, wearing a construction helmet and glowing. 

“We haven’t been able to fix anything!” he declared proudly.

Caine just about fell out of the air in shock, quickly righting himself. “Bubble! They’re not supposed to know that!” he whispered harshly. 

“Oh. I guess they do now huh?” Bubble replied. Caine swiftly popped him, his helmet falling out of the air and into Kinger’s lap.

“Ooh! A gift from the gods!” he declared, immediately putting it on. 

“You guys haven’t found the issue yet..? Is there anything we can do to help?” Ragatha asked.

“We? I ain’t helping.” Zooble declared. 

“I’m with Zoob. I’m pretty comfortable in this little tent. With my stuffed animal.” Jax said, patting Pomni on the arm. Pomni felt like she might explode.

“I APPRECIATE THE OFFER RAGATHA, BUT UNFORTUNATELY, THE ISSUE IS FOR RINGMASTER AND RINGMASTER ASSOCIATED ASSOCIATES ONLY!” 

“Well… what is the issue then?” Gangle asked. 

“WELL YOU SEE-”

Caine then regurgitated an enormous dump of information, enough to fill up three pages front and back. But his voice was sped up so quickly that it all flew by in a matter of about 30 seconds. 

“-BUT THAT’S THE SHORT VERSION!” 

“So… it’s gonna take a while to fix, then.” Pomni said. She was admittedly a bit happy they wouldn’t be thrown into another adventure right then and there. She was comfortable right where she was… right there next to Jax, sharing his warmth. His fur was fine yet plush, incredibly soft like that of a microfiber blanket.

“How did it happen anyway? Were you messing with the weather again?” Zooble asked.

“I PLEAD THE FIFTH!”

“Caine, don’t take this the wrong way, but… you look… tired?” Ragatha asked. 

“HA! DON’T BE RIDICULOUS! I’M THE RINGMASTER! IT’S MY JOB TO KEEP YOU ALL ENTERTAINED FOR-”

There was a deafening clap of thunder that stopped Caine’s spiel in its tracks. He looked up at the ceiling and then hung his head.

“I’m very tired.”

Ragatha smiled and got to her feet, stepping out of the now roofless blanket fort and over to the camping stove sitting on her table. She got the stove started after a few attempts, refilling her tea-kettle. The others watched her, exchanging looks. 

“Whatcha doing there, Rags?” Jax inquired uneasily.

“Caine said he was tired, didn’t he? He could use a cup of tea.” Ragatha replied, putting the kettle onto the burner. 

“Can Caine even eat or drink..? I don’t know if-ACK!”

Pomni was bonked on the head by an object that  fell from above. As it rigidly fell to the mass of cushions with a polite plop, its form became clear in the beam of the flashlight. 

“Caine dropped his… uh, cane!” Gangle whispered, putting a ribbon to her mouth in surprise.

The six performers looked up at the ringmaster. He hovered in the same spot, head still bowed. A sound emitted from his teeth, a mixture of a Dial-up computer’s startup sound and faint snoring. 

“Oh my God, he’s out cold!” Zooble said incredulously. They stood and tapped one of Caine’s feet experimentally. Not even a twitch. A huge grin spread across Jax’s face. “Let’s put his hand in warm water!” He scrambled to his feet, only for Pomni to grab one of his ankles on his way out of the fort, causing him to fall onto the floor, one leg still stuck in the fort. “Let’s not.” she retorted flatly. “Man, you suck.” Jax said, putting his chin on his knuckles in petulant disappointment. 

“Guys, we should let him sleep,” Ragatha said, dropping a tea bag into one of her China cups. “I think if he gets the rest he needs, he’ll be able to fix all this. At least give him until his tea is ready.” The other performers obliged, some more reluctant than others. Jax climbed back into the tent beside Pomni. They chatted quietly for a few minutes, occasionally glancing up to check on Caine, who remained suspended in the air like an unused marionette. Ragatha soon approached with a cup of her purple tea on a saucer. 

“Anyone want to do the honors?” she asked, looking up at Caine with an amused smile. 

“I’m on it.” Jax said, picking up a pillow. He squinted one eye to help his aim and lobbed it at Caine. The cushion bounced off Caine’s teeth, landing back on the floor anticlimactically. 

A few seconds of silence and then Caine slowly raised his head as a start-up jingle played. He blinked rapidly and looked around. “GADZOOKS! HOW LONG WAS I OUT?!” he cried.

“Couple hours.” Jax replied. This earned him a whap with a pillow from Pomni. 

“He’s kidding, you were sleeping for about twenty minutes,” Ragatha said. “But you needed it. Do you feel any better?” Caine scratched where his chin might have been. “HMM, LET ME SEE…” 

He put his hands on his hips, staring off into nothing. His eyes gradually drifted in opposite directions. “Uh…” Pomni began. “YES! I FEEL MUCH BETTER! ALL I NEEDED WAS A GOOD HARD RESET! DON’T YOU WORRY, MY LITTLE SUPERSTARS, YOU CAN REST EASY KNOWING THAT I’LL HAVE THIS STORM ISSUE FIXED WITHIN THE HOUR!”

“That’s great! But, you know? It was a fun little adventure on its own, I think.” Ragatha said. “FANTASTIC NEWS! THAT JUST MEANS I’LL HAVE TO WORK EVEN HARDER TO SURPRISE YOU ALL WITH TOMORROW’S ADVENTURE, WON’T I?!” 

Everyone winced. 

“WELL, I BETTER GET BACK TO IT! SEE YOU ALL ON A SUNNIER DAY!” Caine declared, picking up his cane from the pillows and twirling it around with theatrical flourish. 

“Oh, did you want your tea first?” Ragatha held up the steaming cup for Caine to see. “GOSH RAGATHA, I ALMOST FORGOT! THANK YOU, DEAR!” Caine hovered down and took the teacup with his free hand, pinky out.

“Be careful, Caine, it’s a little-” Ragatha’s smile melted when she saw Caine chug the entire thing in one go, tossing the teacup over his shoulder, where it shattered on the floor with a tinkly smash. 

“...hot. A-Are you okay?” 

Steam issued from Caine’s mouth, his tongue significantly more raw and red. Tears pooled in his eyes. “THE PAIN ITH ALMOTHT EUPHORIC, RAGATHA!” he lisped, pointing at the ragdoll. He then disappeared in a loud pop of confetti, a distant howl of pain audible within a rumble of thunder. 

After cleaning up the bits of broken china, Ragatha put Zooble’s blanket back over top of their fort and climbed back inside. The performers spent the next hour or so chatting about this and that. About 20 minutes was devoted to an argument over whether milk or dark chocolate was superior, Kinger rattled off an encyclopedic list of the insects he had in his collection, and Jax introduced everyone to the concept of “The Game.” It was agreed Kinger had the best chance of winning The Game given his iffy memory. 

Pomni was in the middle of reciting Pi, and was on the forty-first digit (6) when the lights weakly flashed on, turned off, then bloomed to full brightness. 

“Yaaay! We’ve got power!” Ragatha cried joyfully. 

“Aw, too bad. I was curious about the rest of Pi.” Jax drawled. Pomni blushed and nudged him on the shoulder. 

The performers took a moment to help Ragatha snuff out all of her candles and put away all the sticks and dishes they were placed on. They carefully dismantled their fort, everyone holding their respective blanket and pillows. “Thanks for stopping by, you guys. I know I said it was a slumber party, but it’s only… uh…” Ragatha checked a pocket watch she had in her dress. “1:52 PM. So I guess it doesn’t technically doesn’t qualify…”

“Hey, don’t sweat it doll,” Zooble said. “I had a nice time. Doesn’t happen very often, you know?” 

“Mmm-hmm. I would have spent the whole day hiding in bed without you.” Gangle added. She still had Ragatha’s stuffed zebra under one ribbon, the doll said she could borrow it.

“You guys, come on…” Ragatha waved a hand, her cheeks pink. “It’s no big deal, really.” 

“Give yourself some credit, Ragatha. You did the most today.” Pomni insisted with a faint smile. 

Ragatha laughed off the compliments. Even if she was being humble, it was clear just how much the praise meant to her from her luminous blush. The performers parted ways, going to their rooms to make their beds and, for some, promptly lay back down in them. Pomni rubbed her eyes as she smoothed out her comforter. That ginseng was really carrying her, and now that the last of it had passed through her brain, she was left with the combined fatigue of too little sleep and emotional overexertion. A nap would really hit the spot right now, and the dim light from the leftover storm, now not much more than a drizzle and occasional thunder, was an open invitation for her to close her heavy eyelids. Only… there was one thing she needed to take care of first.

She swallowed, feeling a spark of anxiety in her belly, but decided to bite the bullet and go for it. She crossed the hallway to Jax’s room and knocked on his door. “Jax..?” she called, too quietly to be heard. Her anxiety had a nasty habit of forcing her voice into a mumble. She cleared her throat and opened her mouth to try again, only for the door to open. Jax looked down at her and gave her a smile. “...Hey.” “Hi…” she replied with a timid little wave. “Can I come in..?” Jax moved aside to let the jester into his room. Through his window, she could see the sky was still covered in a patchy mix of white and gray clouds, puddles dotting the grounds just about everywhere. Jax closed the door and locked it. “...I’m sorry I yelled at you.” Pomni said. She put the thumb of one of her gloves in her teeth and chewed on it. “You were being an @$$, but I was out of line too.”

Jax went over to the window and looked outside. Pomni moved her teeth from her thumb to her pointer finger. “...I do still think that… You wouldn’t hate yourself as much if you weren’t-” 

“Spare me.” 

Pomni looked up. Jax was still smiling, but it wasn’t nearly as wide as before. “You’re right. You don’t have to hurt yourself coming up with a whole big speech.” Jax said, turning to look at Pomni. She averted eye contact, looking out the window instead. 

“...I won’t. But…” Pomni bit particularly hard on the tip of her glove. “You… really don’t remember?” 

Jax shook his head. “Nope. It just… exists. The feeling that I’m nothing. Worse than nothing-”

“Less than a person.” Pomni finished.  “Below zero.” 

“Yup.” Jax said. “No cure for something with no cause.” 

Jax felt a pair of arms wrap around his torso. Pomni rested her head against his side, looking out the window with him.

“That doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to make it hurt a little less.” 

Jax felt an ache in his throat. He put a hand on Pomni’s back. She didn’t flinch.

The two of them looked out the window like that for a while. Jax eventually led her over to his bed, helping her climb in and pulling the covers back.

“I figured you were tired too.” he said. 

“God, am I ever. I feel so heavy…” Pomni sighed.

Jax tossed the covers over her. He scooted up beside her on the bed, and she immediately slid up beside him, resting her cheek on his chest. His denim overalls were warm. “I had a good time with you today…” Pomni said. “Can… Can I kiss you?”

Jax was quiet for a moment. He looked down at the jester. She met his eyes. He leaned down and their lips met. It wasn’t a long kiss, or even a very good one. Pomni was off-center by a few centimeters and ended up kissing his bottom lip only, and the awkward angle made it so Jax had to crane his neck to get any reach at all. And yet, the electricity between their lips easily dwarfed any thunderstorm.

[june-gdprototyping]

The Commonly Used Metal 3D Printing Materials

Metal 3D printing uses a variety of metal powders, wires, and even liquid resins infused with metal. Almost any metal can be 3D printed, from stainless steel to nickel-based alloys, and in practice, about 8 are most commonly used. The most common question about metal 3D printing is: Will the final part have the same mechanical properties as a machined, moulded or forged metal part? The answer is yes, and sometimes even better mechanical quality, but it depends a lot on the metal 3D printing technology you use, the type of feedstock used, post-processing and the shape of the part. In addition, the comparison depends on the aspects you are concerned about: for example, tensile strength, static load strength, high cycle fatigue, and so on.

In general, the material properties of metal parts made by metal bond jetting are equivalent to those of metal parts produced by metal injection moulding, and it is one of the most widely used manufacturing methods for the mass production of metal parts. These 8 metal alloys below are just the beginning of what is possible today as metal material producers continue to push the boundaries and customize metal alloys for specific needs using specific metal 3D printing technologies.

1.Stainless Steel Feature: All-round Stainless steel is not the material most commonly used in 3D printing, but many alloy varieties. The first two are 316L and 17-4 PH, but also 304L, 15-5 PH, 420, 254, PH1, GP1, 630, and 410 can be printed, as well as custom blends produced by material manufacturer. These steels are specifically designed to resist corrosion. They are a lightweight and affordable metal that is ideal for 3D printing. This is because it is faster and cheaper than traditional methods and can print small batches and complex parts. 3D printing is the preferred option for companies that need a single tool or several replacement parts. Stainless steel can be used in almost any type of 3D printing, from economical wire for extruded 3D printing on benchtop machines to powder for binder jetting and laser powder bed fusion, and even resin.

2.Tool Steel Feature: High hardness, good wear resistance Tool steels, like stainless steels, come in different varieties with different tensile strengths, ductility, hardness and other properties. Tool steels are a variety of alloy steels designed specifically for the manufacture of tools. They are known for their hardness, wear resistance and ability to hold a cutting edge at high temperatures. This 3D printing steel is commonly used in the manufacture of injection mould inserts, aerospace components, military applications, manufacturing tools, as well as construction and architecture. The main advantage of 3D printed tool steel is not only its strength, but also its unique ability to create parts with internal channels (e.g. cooling channels in moulding tools) and lattice fillings that cannot be manufactured by traditional methods.

3.Low-Alloy Steel All 3D printing steels are alloys, but this category includes steels with low or less than 5 per cent of other elements. These low alloy steels are designed to have higher mechanical properties and greater resistance to wear and corrosion than other steels which are commonly used in automotive, aerospace and structural applications.

4.Aluminum Feature: Lightweight and corrosion resistant For aerospace, automotive and industry, the design freedom and cost efficiency of 3D printing further enhances the lightweight and chemical resistance of aluminum components. The use of aluminum and aluminum alloys in 3D printing is surging because the metal is economical and easy to 3D print. Like most metals, aluminum can be used as wire or powder for a variety of 3D printing techniques. Aluminium has good chemical resistance, is very light and has one of the best strength-to-weight ratios of any metal. Combined with silicon and magnesium, it is the choice of many in the aerospace and automotive industries because of its ability to withstand harsh conditions.

5.Titanium Feature: Lightweight and biocompatible As strong as steel but half the weight, titanium is a complex metal that is practically made for 3D printing. Titanium has become one of the most commonly used metals in additive manufacturing, with a wide range of applications in aerospace, joint replacement and surgical tools, racing car and bicycle frames, electronics and other high-performance products. Titanium and titanium-based alloys offer high mechanical strength, high strength-to-weight ratios and better corrosion resistance than stainless steel. It makes rockets and aircraft lighter, thus saving fuel and increasing payload capacity. In the medical industry, 3D printed titanium implants have been successfully used in the spine, hips, knees and extremities due to the inherent biocompatibility and good mechanical properties of the metal, coupled with the ability to customize porous structures with 3D printing, allowing for osseointegration and mass customization for better patient outcomes.

6.Copper Feature: Electrical and thermal conductivity 3D printing using pure copper and space-age copper alloys is available with a range of metal 3D printers and services. You can create rapid copper prototypes using copper filament on an FDM 3D printer and large copper rocket boosters using copper alloys on a laser powder bed fusion 3D printer. There is also copper wire and copper resin for micro 3D printing. In fact, copper plays a huge role in the global sustainable development goals as a key component of electric motors, charging infrastructure, solar energy and batteries.

7.Nickel Alloy Feature: Extreme environments resistant Nickel-based alloys and "high-temperature alloys" are known for their excellent high-temperature strength, corrosion and oxidation resistance. These alloys retain their strength and mechanical properties at high temperatures. They are commonly used in demanding applications such as aerospace, gas turbines, chemical processing and marine environments. In recent years, these alloys have also become increasingly popular in 3D printing, especially in the aerospace and automotive industries. When referring to nickel alloys, you may hear the term inconel. Inconel is the trade name for a range of nickel-chromium-based high-temperature alloys, including IN625, IN718 and IN939. Nickel alloys are generally more expensive than other materials such as steel and aluminium and may not be suitable for low temperature applications.

8.Cobalt Chrome Feature: High temperature and corrosion resistance 3D printed cobalt chrome has a high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance, making it a good material choice for aerospace components and industrial machinery. It is also biocompatible and is often used in orthopaedic implants, dental prosthetics and medical devices that require long-term contact with biological tissue. Cobalt-chromium alloys can be processed using additive manufacturing techniques such as selective laser melting (SLM) or electron beam melting (EBM). This allows complex geometries and customized parts to be produced with minimal material waste, making it attractive to industries adopting advanced manufacturing techniques.

To sum up, metal 3D printing uses a wide range of metal powders and wires, including stainless steel, tool steel, etc. to print complex parts with superior mechanical properties. Commonly used metals in 3D printing include aluminum, titanium, copper, nickel alloys, tool steel, cobalt-chromium alloys, stainless steel for aerospace, medical and jewellery applications and more.

[ahamkara-apologist]

Some quick Aeris facts for y'all before I go to bed:

-Really likes lemon-flavored candies and lemon cake. Also a big fan of those fluffy donut holes with powdered sugar on top of them

-Very soft-spoken and usually mumbles when he talks, if he talks at all (yeah I based a lot of him off the Guardian in-game, but the Guardian's voice in game is super deep and that always takes me out LOL). He's also very blunt and has a hard time not sounding either deadpan or having a slightly off cadance to his voice, and most of his 'snappy comebacks' are from action movies or watching other guardians. Because his humour is extremely dry and he has a soft spot for puns, its sometimes hard to tell if this is deliberately done for comedic effect or copied because he's trying to come off as cool

-Will also infodump about his friend's interests and studies if prompted and in a good mood, and enjoys being infodumped to in turn. It gives him a starting-off point for him to engage in a conversation without Ghost's or Marcie's help

-Hates the popularity and 'placed on a pedestal' nature of being The Guardian(tm) and cares very little about fitting in socially, but also really wants to please those he looks up to/not upset people.

-Cannot sit normally on anything. He's a Hunter for a reason. He has to crouch-perch on everything and be on top of the tallest thing in the room. Half the time its just to see that he can do it

-Ghost is still officially named Ghost because he's got a Thing about names being special and also because neither of them can settle on one they like (I've called him Hoarfrost in the past but they are STILL debating on that). Also, he prefers to go by 'Guardian' because 'Aeris' is close to 'Eris' and in his reasoning, 'she had the name first so she gets seniority rights'

-Actually really likes tactile stimuli. He won't initiate physical affection much, but you bet your ass he's gonna cuddle if given the chance, though the person he usually only actively cuddles with is his sister, Marcie, or Ghost

-Has an apartment in the Tower that he never uses. Pretty much lives in the Eliksni quarter exclusively bc they don't pick up on the fact that he's autistic as fast as human people and he really likes that

-He's got Archer Muscles(tm) and is pretty pleased with it. He doesn't think much of his appearance often, but thats one of the few aspects of it that he's proud of

-Crow is one of his best friends, and while they had a whole tense thing with Crow having a crush on him pre regaining his memories that Aeris couldn't reciprocate and felt guilty for, they're still on pretty good terms (thats a whole other seperate thing I can get into tho)

-Actually hates fusion rifles, but was too polite to correct Saint when he said Aeris's favorite gun was a fusion rifle so

-Sexuality is like. Aro/ace/gay. He's aro for sure, and most of the time he barely thinks about or desires sex with people, but when he does it's only with men, his taste in which is...questionable, most of the time.

-(Misraaks. Taniks, if he had the chance. Drifter. You get the point.)

-Also, he's a bottom and likes to be shoved around bc of afformentioned 'doesnt like being treated like the Chosen One' shtick

-Pre death and rez: He's the result of a cocky, boastful human man getting frisky with an Awoken warrior. Said man married for power later, and was VERY unhappy when Aeris was dumped on his doorstep as a kid, esp. since he got his wife pregnant already (that was Marcie)

-Aeris's mother was named Iliya, he was brought to term, born in the Reef, and dumped on his dad bc his dad said they wouldn't need contraceptives bc Awoken and 'normal humans' couldn't interbreed. She pretty much birthed him out of spite

-He DID go back to the Reef a few times as a diplomat from Earth (his dad was politically savvy, if a douchebag), but I doubt his mom ever bothered with him much. Marcie was the only person he was close to, as he was her older brother and he ADORED her, and that was a bond that persisted even after their death and rez together

-she died in the Skolas Incident btw so no meeting her son again post-rez for her.

-This is something that Mara knew vaguely about, bc while Awoken/Humans are viable, they're really rare in the Reef. That she knew of his birth pre-death and who his mother was is part of the reason Aeris doesn't like her- it weirds him out. The only info that he got about himself pre-rez was from Marcie's diary (which was on her corpse when they were rezzed) was that the swearing woman underneath him in a rusted-out shelter in the cold of Old Russia was his half sister and that his father was a no-good whore, so the fact that someone out there knows of the other half of his family...it bothers him

-Despite that, he still has an instinctual connection to the Reef and a longing to fit in with it and gets really shy when Petra calls him 'cousin', since he's not quite right enough to stick in with Humans and too boring to be Awoken back on Earth, so it makes him feel included

[awantipolymoulds]

What is Additive Manufacturing

Far from being a process or just a trend, additive manufacturing is more of a technological revolution that comes under the fourth industrial revolution. As the name suggests, the additive manufacturing process works by adding materials. Layers upon layers of materials are deposited successively on top of each other until the desired object is produced.

What is additive manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing (AM) is the industrial manufacturing process that uses computer-aided-design (CAD) software or 3D object scanners to direct hardware to deposit material, layer upon layer, to create desired geometric shapes.

How does additive manufacturing work?

The very first step in additive manufacturing is to create a 3D model of the object. This model can be designed using computer-aided design (CAD) software. This CAD file is now converted to a standard additive manufacturing file format, which is usually an STL file. The STL file is then digitally sliced into different layers. The third stage requires the transfer of the STL file and also the setting up of the machine. In the fourth step, the machine that is controlled by a computer builds the model layer by layer. The thickness of the layer dictates the final quality and it depends on the process and machine.

What are the types of additive manufacturing?

There are different additive manufacturing processes with their own set of standards, which include:

1) Binder Jetting

The binder jetting technique of AM uses a 3D printing style head moving around the x, y, and z axes to build up alternate layers of powdered material and a liquid binder used as an adhesive.

2) Directed Energy Deposition

Direct energy deposition additive manufacturing is used with different materials like polymers, ceramics, and metals. An electric arc, a laser or an electron beam gun that is mounted on an arm moves horizontally, making filament feedstock, powder, or melting wires to accumulate material with the bed moving vertically.

3) Material Extrusion

In the material extrusion process, spooled polymers either drawn through a heated nozzle or extruded are mounted on a movable arm which builds up melted material layer upon layer with the nozzle moving horizontally and the bed moving vertically.

4) Powder Bed Fusion

The powder bed fusion process encompasses a variety of AM techniques like direct metal laser melting (DMLM), electron beam melting (EBM), direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), selective heat sintering (SHS), and selective laser sintering (SLS). In this process, electron beams, thermal print heads, or lasers are used to melt fine layers of material, and after that, the excess powder is blown away.

5) Sheet Lamination</h4

The sheet lamination process of AM can be split into two technologies: ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) and laminated object manufacturing (LOM). UAM uses an ultrasonic welding method to join thin metal sheets at low energy and low temperature. While laminated object manufacturing is best for creating items with visual appeal and makes use of alternate layers of paper and adhesive.

6) Vat Polymerisation

The vat polymerisation process uses a vat of liquid resin to produce an object layer upon layer. Ultraviolet light is directed through mirrors to cure the layers of resin by photo polymerisation.

7) Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing

In wire arc additive manufacturing, manipulators and arc welding power sources are used to build desired 3D shapes through arc deposition. This process typically uses wire as a material source and takes a predetermined path to get the desired shape.

What are the materials used in additive manufacturing?

There are three types of materials that can be used in additive manufacturing: polymers, ceramics, and metals.

Polymers: Polymers remain the most popular class of additive manufacturing materials. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), and polycarbonate (PC) each one offer specific advantages in varied applications.

Ceramics: Different types of ceramics have also been used in additive manufacturing, including tricalcium phosphate, alumina, and zirconia. Also, alternate layers of adhesive and powdered glass are baked together to produce entirely new classes of glass products.

Metals: Different metals or metal alloys are used in additive manufacturing, from expensive metals like silver and gold to strategic metals like titanium and stainless steel.

What are the advantages of additive manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing has the following advantages:

Compared to conventional techniques that have geometric limitations, additive manufacturing can create models swiftly, in hours.

Additive manufacturing technology allows models to be printed in a single process, and organic shapes can be easily produced. Conventional manufacturing constraints are eliminated or reduced.

There are fewer resources for machines and fewer skilled labour requirements as compared to conventional model manufacturing.

Efficient use of material because of the exact production of parts, and there is no overproduction based on any estimated demand.

Commercial advantage and higher competitiveness, in the form of reduced risk and costs, as the manufacturing time from concept to production, is reduced.

What are the applications of additive manufacturing?

The fields of application for additive manufacturing are diverse. We focus here on industrial usage of additive manufacturing:

Aerospace Industry

Automotive Industry

Food Industry

Machinery (e.g., turbines)

Medical (dental, orthopedic)

Handling and robotics

Lifestyle and Sports (e.g., jewellery, biking)

Custom Parts (e.g., surgical tools and automobile parts)

Awanti Polymoulds, a manufacturer and exporter and also the leading blow mould manufacturer in India makes use of additive manufacturing in 3D printing of bottle concepts. We provide advanced solutions for bottle design and mould manufacturing. We specialize in PET Blow Moulds. Awanti Polymoulds is best known for its commitment to quality products and customer satisfaction.

[exxjetsystems]

3D printing technology has revolutionized manufacturing

Introduction

3D printing technology has revolutionized manufacturing, prototyping, and even hobbies. From creating complex mechanical parts to custom jewelry and medical implants, the possibilities are endless. However, the type of 3D printer you choose significantly impacts the quality, speed, material compatibility, and cost of your output. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of 3D printers, how they work, their pros and cons, and the best use cases for each.

1. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)

FDM is the most common and affordable 3D printing technology, especially popular with beginners and hobbyists.

How it works: FDM printers melt thermoplastic filament and extrude it layer-by-layer through a heated nozzle to build an object.

Materials used: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon.

Pros:

Budget-friendly

Easy to use

Widely available

Large material support

Cons:

Lower resolution compared to resin printers

Visible layer lines

Post-processing may be required

Best for: Prototyping, DIY projects, educational models, and simple functional parts.

2. SLA (Stereolithography)

SLA printers use a laser to cure liquid resin into hardened plastic.

How it works: A UV laser traces a pattern on a vat of photopolymer resin, solidifying it layer by layer.

Materials used: Photopolymer resins.

Pros:

High precision and detail

Smooth surface finish

Excellent for small, intricate models

Cons:

Resin handling can be messy and requires safety measures

Limited material options

Expensive resins and maintenance

Best for: Dental molds, jewelry prototypes, miniatures, and engineering parts requiring fine detail.

3. DLP (Digital Light Processing)

DLP is similar to SLA but uses a digital light projector instead of a laser.

How it works: A digital projector cures entire layers of resin simultaneously, making it faster than SLA.

Materials used: UV-sensitive photopolymer resins.

Pros:

Faster than SLA

High resolution

Smooth finish

Cons:

Small build volumes

Costly resins

Post-processing needed

Best for: High-resolution models, prototypes, dental applications, and small batch production.

4. SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)

SLS uses a powerful laser to sinter powdered material into solid objects.

How it works: A laser selectively fuses powder particles, layer by layer. Unused powder supports the object during printing, eliminating the need for support structures.

Materials used: Nylon, TPU, polystyrene, metals (in industrial SLS).

Pros:

No support structures needed

Strong, functional parts

Great for complex geometries

Cons:

Expensive equipment

Powder handling requires ventilation

Rougher surface finish

Best for: Functional prototypes, industrial parts, enclosures, and aerospace components.

5. MJF (Multi Jet Fusion)

MJF is HP's proprietary 3D printing technology that improves upon SLS.

How it works: It uses inkjet arrays to apply fusing agents on layers of powder, which are then fused using infrared light.

Materials used: Nylon (PA12, PA11), TPU.

Pros:

Strong, functional parts

Faster than SLS

Excellent dimensional accuracy

Cons:

High upfront cost

Limited to industrial use

Best for: Mass customization, short-run production, and durable prototypes.

6. DMLS/SLM (Direct Metal Laser Sintering / Selective Laser Melting)

These metal 3D printing technologies are used in high-performance applications.

How it works: A laser melts or sinters metal powder layer by layer to form fully dense metal parts.

Materials used: Stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, cobalt-chrome, Inconel.

Pros:

Produces fully functional metal parts

Complex geometries possible

Strong and durable output

Cons:

Very expensive

Requires post-processing (heat treatment, machining)

Specialized environment needed

Best for: Aerospace, automotive, medical implants, and tooling.

7. Binder Jetting

Binder jetting uses a liquid binding agent deposited onto a bed of powder to create parts.

How it works: A print head deposits a binding agent onto layers of powder material. After printing, parts are cured and often sintered.

Materials used: Metals, sand, ceramics.

Pros:

No support structures

Faster printing speeds

Scalable for mass production

Cons:

Requires post-processing

Lower mechanical strength before sintering

Best for: Metal parts, full-color prototypes, and sand casting molds.

8. PolyJet

PolyJet is a resin-based technology that jets layers of curable photopolymer.

How it works: Print heads deposit tiny droplets of resin, which are cured by UV light instantly.

Materials used: Photopolymer resins with varying properties.

Pros:

Multiple materials/colors in one print

High resolution

Smooth surface finish

Cons:

High cost

Limited mechanical strength

Best for: Prototypes, medical models, and design mock-ups.

9. LOM (Laminated Object Manufacturing)

LOM is a lesser-known but cost-effective technology.

How it works: Sheets of material (paper, plastic, metal) are cut and bonded layer by layer.

Materials used: Paper, plastic, composites.

Pros:

Affordable materials

No special environment required

Cons:

Lower resolution

Limited material strength

Best for: Architectural models, educational tools, and early concept prototypes.

Choosing the Right 3D Printer

The best type of 3D printer depends on your application, budget, and required precision. Here's a quick comparison:

Printer Type

Precision

Speed

Cost

Best For

FDM

Medium

Medium

Low

Prototypes, DIY

SLA/DLP

High

High

Medium

Miniatures, Dental

SLS/MJF

High

High

High

Functional Parts

DMLS/SLM

Very High

Low

Very High

Aerospace, Medical

PolyJet

Very High

Medium

High

Concept models

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of 3D printers is essential for making informed choices in your personal or professional projects. Whether you're a hobbyist looking for a budget-friendly option like FDM, or a manufacturer seeking the precision of SLS or DMLS, there is a 3D printing solution tailored to your needs. As the technology evolves, newer hybrid machines and materials will further expand the possibilities of additive manufacturing.

[materialsscienceandengineering]

3D printing method crafts stronger, more ductile alloy for extreme environments

A team of researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong University, Tianmushan Laboratory, and the National University of Singapore has pioneered a new method for crafting an ultra-strong, ductile alloy using 3D printing technology. This alloy—an oxygen-doped blend of niobium, titanium, and zirconium (called "NTZO")—was fabricated using laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), a technique that applies rapid heating and cooling to produce metals layer by layer. Through this process, they've achieved a unique combination of strength and flexibility, making it an ideal material for the toughest environments, from aerospace to medical applications. Their findings were published in Materials Futures. Body-centered cubic medium-entropy alloys composed of refractory metals like NbTiZr are known for their remarkable strength. However, traditional fabrication methods often result in materials that are rigid and more likely to crack under pressure.

Read more.

[soumyafwr]

Powder Bed Fusion Market 

[ukquickparts]

Why Engineers Are Still Talking About SLS (and You Should Be Too)

In the fast-moving world of additive manufacturing, some technologies fade as quickly as they rise. Others quietly evolve and remain indispensable. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is the latter; and engineers who need performance over flash know exactly why.

Despite being one of the earliest powder bed technologies, SLS continues to set the standard for durability, design freedom, and production reliability. It’s not nostalgia. It’s engineering logic.

SLS is Still the Benchmark for Functional Parts

If you’re building for real-world conditions — heat, stress, wear, chemical exposure — there are many instances where SLS still leads the pack. It builds in true thermoplastics like PA12, PA11, and filled nylons, not UV-cured resins or thermoplastic fusions that can compromise under load.

Even next-gen competitors using inkjet-based fusing and thermal agents are still chasing the level of material maturity and consistency that SLS has delivered for over two decades. And what about resin-based processes like DLP? While great for dental and design work, they run up against a few issues such as brittleness and UV sensitivity despite some being created specifically for production, and this means they’re simply not in the same category when it comes to engineering-grade strength or longevity.

Strength Without Supports

Everyone knows SLS builds without support structures — no post-processing scars, no restricted geometries, no compromised weak points. But it’s worth remembering that, for engineers working with internal ducting, lattice structures, or snap-fit assemblies, this is a non-negotiable advantage.

Compare that to even the most advanced FDM processes, where support material removal and anisotropic strength are constant design headaches, or to inkjet-fused powder systems, where fusing consistency can vary across part geometries or build orientation.

Repeatability at Scale

Whether you are making one, dozens or hundreds of parts, SLS can be trusted to deliver consistent mechanical properties across the entire batch — build after build.

Some newer polymer fusion technologies use thermal energy in combination with binding agents to produce parts faster — and they offer compelling speed and surface aesthetics. But, they can also face challenges in powder recyclability, internal porosity, and surface finish consistency, especially over larger builds or longer production runs.

Because SLS has matured alongside industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical, it’s better documented, better certified, and better understood — reducing validation risk and speeding up time to market.

Material Versatility That Drives Design

No other polymer process offers the same depth of material choice and real-world resilience. From glass-filled nylons for structural brackets to flexible PA11 offering high impact resistance, SLS is the platform engineers can spec with confidence — and build parts that stand up to heat, chemicals, fatigue, and friction.

This blog is originally published here: https://quickparts.com/gb/why-engineers-are-still-talking-about-sls-and-you-should-be-too/

[apekshamore6799]

3D Printing Powder Market Growth Driven by Rising Adoption of Additive Manufacturing Technologies Globally

The 3D Printing Powder Market is witnessing rapid expansion as additive manufacturing technologies continue to gain traction across various industries. These technologies, which involve layer-by-layer printing to create complex structures, are transforming the way products are designed and produced. Central to this transformation is the growing demand for high-quality 3D printing powders, which are essential for producing robust, precise, and durable printed objects.

In this blog, we will delve into the factors driving the growth of the 3D printing powder market, focusing on the increasing adoption of additive manufacturing across industries, technological advancements, and evolving consumer demands.

The Rise of Additive Manufacturing Technologies

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is revolutionizing industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. This process allows for the creation of complex parts that are lightweight, durable, and cost-efficient, making it an attractive alternative to traditional manufacturing methods. As a result, 3D printing has become an indispensable tool for prototyping, production, and supply chain optimization.

One of the main components of successful additive manufacturing is the use of specialized powders that are fused together during the printing process. These powders, which come in a variety of materials such as metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites, play a crucial role in determining the quality and functionality of the printed parts. The demand for these powders is expected to continue rising as the adoption of additive manufacturing increases globally.

1. Wide Range of Applications Across Industries

The demand for 3D Printing Powder Market solutions is driven by the increasing application of 3D printing in a wide range of industries. For example, the aerospace sector uses 3D printing to create complex, lightweight components, leading to reduced fuel consumption and cost savings. The automotive industry is adopting additive manufacturing for creating lightweight parts, which can improve vehicle efficiency and performance.

In the healthcare sector, 3D printing powders are used to manufacture custom implants, prosthetics, and medical devices that are tailored to individual patients. Moreover, the consumer goods industry is leveraging 3D printing to produce customized and on-demand products, while the construction industry is exploring the potential of 3D printing to build structures with enhanced efficiency and sustainability.

As more industries discover the potential of 3D printing, the demand for specialized powders continues to grow. Companies are constantly developing new materials to meet the evolving needs of these industries, further expanding the 3D Printing Powder Market.

2. Technological Advancements in 3D Printing Powders

Recent advancements in material science and 3D printing technology have played a key role in the expansion of the 3D printing powder market. Innovations in powder formulations, improved powder processing techniques, and advancements in powder-bed fusion technologies have enhanced the quality and precision of 3D printed parts.

For instance, the development of high-performance metal powders, such as titanium and stainless steel alloys, has enabled the creation of stronger and more durable parts for industries like aerospace and medical devices. Similarly, advancements in polymer powders, such as nylon and thermoplastic elastomers, have opened up new possibilities for producing flexible and durable parts for automotive and consumer goods applications.

Another important development is the growing focus on sustainability. Manufacturers are now working on producing powders from recycled materials or designing biodegradable powders to reduce the environmental impact of additive manufacturing. These innovations are helping to drive the growth of the 3D Printing Powder Market by meeting both performance and sustainability requirements.

3. Cost-Effectiveness and Design Flexibility

One of the major advantages of 3D printing is the ability to produce parts with intricate designs that would be difficult or impossible to achieve using traditional manufacturing methods. This design flexibility is a key factor driving the adoption of additive manufacturing across various sectors.

Moreover, 3D printing reduces the need for expensive tooling, molds, and large-scale production runs, making it a cost-effective solution for low-volume production, rapid prototyping, and custom manufacturing. For industries where rapid iteration and product customization are essential, 3D printing provides a significant competitive edge.

As the demand for cost-effective, customizable manufacturing solutions increases, the 3D Printing Powder Market is benefiting from the growing need for high-quality powders that can deliver superior performance while maintaining affordability.

4. Rising Demand for Customization and Personalization

As consumer preferences shift toward more personalized products, industries are adopting 3D printing as a way to meet these demands. The ability to produce custom-made items, such as personalized jewelry, fashion items, or customized footwear, is driving growth in the 3D Printing Powder Market.

The rise of personalized healthcare products, such as custom prosthetics and implants, is another key driver. These products are designed to fit the unique needs of individual patients, improving both comfort and functionality. The ability to create tailored solutions using 3D printing is revolutionizing the way products are designed and manufactured, opening up new opportunities for the powder market.

Market Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the rapid growth of the 3D Printing Powder Market, several challenges remain. One of the primary concerns is the cost of raw materials and the production of high-quality powders, which can be expensive. Additionally, there is a need for standardization in the industry to ensure consistency and quality across different powder types and printing technologies.

However, the outlook for the market remains positive. As technological advancements continue and new material formulations are developed, the cost of 3D printing powders is expected to decrease, making them more accessible to a broader range of industries. Furthermore, the continued expansion of additive manufacturing across diverse sectors is likely to drive sustained demand for these materials.

Conclusion

The 3D Printing Powder Market is experiencing significant growth, fueled by the increasing adoption of additive manufacturing technologies across industries worldwide. From aerospace to healthcare, the ability to produce customized, cost-effective, and high-performance parts is driving demand for 3D printing powders. As technological advancements continue and new applications emerge, the market for 3D printing powders is set to expand further, offering exciting opportunities for manufacturers and consumers alike.

[industrystudyreport]

The Rise of Powder Bed Fusion: Analyzing the Growth of the SLS Equipment Market

Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Market Growth & Trends

The global Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Market size is anticipated to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 23.7% from 2024 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Growing demand for customized and personalized products across industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods is driving the adoption of SLS equipment, which enables on-demand production of highly complex and customized parts without the need for tooling.

In addition, continuous development and introduction of new materials compatible with SLS technology, including engineering-grade plastics, metals, ceramics, and composites, expand the application potential of SLS equipment across various industries. Further, SLS technology enables rapid prototyping and quick iteration of designs, reducing the time-to-market for new products. This capability is particularly advantageous in industries where speed and agility are critical for maintaining a competitive edge.

Integration of SLS equipment with Industry 4.0 principles, such as automation, connectivity, and data analytics, enhances manufacturing efficiency, quality control, and production flexibility, driving its adoption in smart factories and digital manufacturing environments. Also, the ability of SLS technology to produce parts with minimal material waste compared to subtractive manufacturing methods aligns with sustainability initiatives in various industries, driving the adoption of SLS equipment as a more environmentally friendly manufacturing solution.

Reducing time-to-market is another critical factor fueling the adoption of SLS equipment. In today's fast-paced business environment, companies strive to bring new products to market quickly and efficiently. SLS technology facilitates rapid prototyping and iterative design processes, enabling companies to iterate designs swiftly, conduct feasibility studies, and accelerate product development cycles. Accordingly, businesses can capitalize on market opportunities more effectively and maintain a competitive edge.

Manufacturers of selective laser sintering equipment are adopting several strategies, such as acquisitions, mergers, joint ventures, new product launches, and geographical expansion, to enhance market penetration and cater to changing technological demands from various end-user such as automotive, aerospace & defense, healthcare, and electronics. For instance, in March 2023, 3D Systems entered into a collaboration with TE Connectivity, a prominent producer of connectors and sensors, with the goal of developing an additive manufacturing technique for producing electrical connections.

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Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Market Report Highlights

The plastics material segment is expected to exhibit lucrative growth over the forecast period. Continuous innovation in plastic materials compatible with SLS technology drives the expansion of the plastics segment. Manufacturers are developing new polymers with enhanced properties such as strength, flexibility, heat resistance, and durability, broadening the range of applications for SLS in industries including automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

The gas laser type segment held the largest share of the global revenue in 2023. Gas lasers can sinter a wide range of materials, including polymers, metals, and ceramics. This versatility makes gas laser-based SLS equipment attractive to industries requiring diverse material options for their manufacturing processes.

The industrial printer technology segment is expected to show lucrative growth over the forecast period. Industrial SLS printers are equipped with advanced automation features and integration capabilities, streamlining production workflows, and reducing manual intervention. Integration with digital manufacturing systems and Industry 4.0 technologies enhances productivity, traceability, and quality control.

The automotive end-use segment held the largest share of the global revenue in 2023. The automotive industry is increasingly focused on lightweight vehicles to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. SLS technology enables the production of lightweight, yet durable components by using advanced materials like carbon fiber-reinforced polymers and metal alloys. These lightweight parts contribute to overall vehicle weight reduction, enhancing fuel efficiency and sustainability.

Asia Pacific dominated the global market in 2023. Asia Pacific is home to some of the world's largest manufacturing economies, including China, Japan, South Korea, and India. The region's robust manufacturing sector, fueled by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and industrialization, drives significant demand for advanced manufacturing technologies including selective laser sintering equipment.

In April 2023, 3D Systems announced that the University Hospital of Salzburg in Austria had successfully integrated its unique suite of point-of-care additive manufacturing solutions.

Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global selective laser sintering equipment market based on material, laser type, technology, end-use, and region:

Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Metal

Plastics

Nylon

Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Laser Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Solid Laser

Gas Laser

Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Desktop Printer

Industrial Printer

Selective Laser Sintering Equipment End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Automotive

Aerospace & Defense

Healthcare

Electronics

Others

Selective Laser Sintering Equipment Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

North America

U.S.

Canada

Mexico

Europe

UK

Germany

France

Italy

Spain

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

Singapore

Central & South America

Brazil

Middle East & Africa

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3D-Printed Knee Implants Offer Superior Quality and Durability

The first laser 3D-printed complete knee implant in history was created by Naton Biotechnology researchers, and it has been officially approved as a novel medical device by China’s National Medical Products Administration. The goal of the study was to increase the cobalt-chromium-molybdenum (CoCrMo) alloy implants’ strength and uniformity utilizing 3D printing technology called laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). In order to make the finished implants stronger, more dependable, and safer for patients, the team identified and fixed structural irregularities in the material by improving heat treatment.

Professor Jia-Kuo Yu of Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital and Professor Changhui Song of South China University of Technology served as co-corresponding authors for the study. Senior Engineer Renyao Li of Naton Biotechnology (Beijing) Co., Ltd., and other team members collaborated on the study.

CoCrMo samples stretched substantially more in one direction than the other in mechanical tests — a difference of more than 100%. Because implants need to function consistently and safely under normal stressors, this discrepancy renders the material untrustworthy for long-term medical usage.

Following this discovery, researchers are now examining surface treatments to improve implants’ biocompatibility and wear resistance even further. Techniques like ultrasonic peening and shot peening, which involve blasting small metal beads onto the surface, may increase implants’ fatigue resistance and lengthen their lifespan under normal load. With the help of these cutting-edge therapies, 3D-printed joint implants may become even more robust and popular in clinical settings.