Cobalt-based Metal Powder

Characteristics

1. High Strength and Toughness: Cobalt-based powders provide mechanical strength and toughness. They are used in applications subjected to high mechanical loads.
2. Wear Resistance: These powders offer measurable wear resistance. They are employed in components that experience friction and mechanical stress.
3. Corrosion Resistance: Cobalt’s inherent corrosion resistance ensures durability even in harsh environments.
4. Heat Resistance: Co-based powders retain their structural integrity at elevated temperatures. They satisfy requirements for thermal stability.
5. Magnetic Properties: Certain cobalt alloys exhibit magnetic properties. They are utilised in specific electronic and industrial applications.

Applications

1. Aerospace: Cobalt-based powders are used in the manufacture of turbine blades, engine components and other parts that require high strength and resistance to extreme temperatures and wear.
2. Medical: They are applied in the production of biocompatible implants, prostheses and surgical instruments, given cobalt’s compatibility with the human body.
3. Energy: These powders are employed in creating durable components for power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors.
4. Industry: They are used in sectors requiring high wear resistance and mechanical strength, for example in tooling and machine construction.
5. Electronics: They find use in the manufacture of electronic and magnetic components by utilising cobalt’s magnetic properties.

Advantages of Co-based Metal Powder in 3D Printing

1. Design Flexibility: 3D printing with cobalt-based powders permits the creation of complex geometries that are challenging to produce via traditional manufacturing methods.
2. Material Efficiency: Additive manufacturing minimises material waste by depositing powder only where it is needed.
3. Customisation: Cobalt powder facilitates the production of parts tailored to specific requirements, which benefits both the medical and aerospace sectors.
4. Rapid Prototyping: The capability for swift prototyping and design iteration reduces development cycles and time-to-market.

Production Methods

1. Gas Atomisation: Spherical cobalt powder particles are produced by gas atomisation. This method supports uniform layer deposition and precise prints.
2. Plasma Atomisation: Fine, spherical powders with excellent flowability and purity are produced by plasma atomisation. They are applied in high-precision contexts.
3. Mechanical Milling: In this process, cobalt is milled into fine powders. The resultant particles are irregularly shaped and are used for specific applications.