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Aluminum AlSi10Mg

direct metal Laser Sintering
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Aluminum AlSi10Mg is a versatile material used in additive manufacturing via DMLS. Its consistent mechanical properties, customizable nature, and resistance to corrosion make it well-suited for applications in aerospace and automotive industries. The DMLS process enables the production of parts with fine resolution, and the ability to post-machine, drill, weld, polish, and coat the parts allows for a wide range of finishes to be achieved. 

Average Lead Time:

8-12 Business Days

Machines Used: 

EOS M100

Colors Available

ABS 3D Printed Xbox Controller
Aluminum AlSi10Mg

Material Overview

Aluminum AlSi10Mg is a widely used material in additive manufacturing. Parts are produced using a Powder Bed Fusion technology known as Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS). This process allows for the production of aluminum parts with consistent mechanical properties and a high-quality finish, achieved by selectively melting layers of metal powder using a powerful laser. With DMLS, parts can be fabricated with layer heights as low as 30 µm, resulting in fine resolution and intricate geometries.

Mechanical Properties

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) Aluminum AlSi10Mg is a popular choice for high-strength, lightweight applications. This alloy, made predominantly of aluminum with silicon and magnesium, exhibits excellent mechanical properties due to its unique microstructure formed during the DMLS process. It has a good strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for aerospace and automotive parts. The material demonstrates high hardness and thermal conductivity, alongside moderate electrical conductivity. Its fatigue resistance is notable, especially under cyclic loading. AlSi10Mg also shows good ductility, allowing for some flexibility in design. Additionally, it possesses decent corrosion resistance, which is beneficial in harsh environments. The DMLS process ensures a fine, homogenous grain structure, enhancing its mechanical properties.

Chemical Compatibility

Aluminum AlSi10Mg offers excellent chemical compatibility for various applications. This aluminum alloy, enriched with silicon and magnesium, demonstrates strong resistance to corrosion, especially against oxidative environments. Its silicon content enhances its resistance to wear and tear in abrasive conditions. The material shows good stability in both alkaline and acidic environments, making it suitable for use in chemically diverse settings. Its compatibility with various lubricants and coolants used in mechanical systems is also noteworthy. However, it's important to consider potential reactions with very strong acids or bases. Overall, DMLS Aluminum AlSi10Mg's chemical compatibility is well-suited for automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications, where exposure to different chemicals and environmental conditions is common.

Thermal Properties

DMLS Aluminum AlSi10Mg, known for its excellent thermal properties, is ideal for applications requiring efficient heat dissipation and management. This alloy exhibits high thermal conductivity, aiding in rapid heat transfer, which is crucial in aerospace and automotive parts. Its low thermal expansion coefficient minimizes size changes under temperature variations, ensuring dimensional stability. The material's ability to withstand thermal cycling makes it suitable for high-temperature environments. However, its melting point is lower than some other metals, which should be considered in extremely high-temperature applications

Applications

DMLS Aluminum AlSi10Mg is extensively used in industries requiring high-strength, lightweight components. Its prime applications include aerospace, where it's used for parts like brackets and engine components, benefiting from its high strength-to-weight ratio and thermal properties. In automotive manufacturing, it's ideal for complex, custom parts like gearbox assemblies. Its good thermal conductivity and stability make it suitable for electronics, especially in heat sinks and cooling devices. Additionally, its biocompatibility and customizable nature make it a choice material for medical implants and prosthetics, showcasing its versatility across various sectors.

Datasheets

Applications

  • Complex assemblies & lattices
  • Thick wall parts
  • Bio-compatible parts
  • Brackets & enclosures
  • Wear-and-tear parts

Material Characteristics

Strength
Flexibility
Durability
Finish
Thermal Stability