Swedish multinational engineering firm Sandvik has announced the development of a novel 3D printable cemented carbide. Previously only used in manufacturing via other technologies, the material features a uniquely tough cobalt and tungsten carbide matrix structure, that lends it the durability needed to yield parts with properties suited to demanding applications. Using an in-house developed process, Sandvik says it has now come up with a new cemented carbide powder, which can more rapidly be 3D printed into objects that last “up to 20 times longer” than those produced from other steels or alloys. “Our powders are optimized to print components that look great, work well – and are fit for use in actual applications, demanding environments and serial production,” explains Anders Ohlsson, Lead Product Manager at Sandvik Additive Manufacturing. “It’s also well worth mentioning the ability to 3D print cemented carbide speeds up our time-to-market rather dramatically. Prototyping used to… read more