This 3D-printed component demonstrates various perspectives of the design freedom that VELO3D’s SupportFree capabilities offer when it comes to heat exchangers. Notice the ultra-thin features in the core (cross-section image, left). Such complexity is near-impossible to attain with existing AM technologies.

Velo3D and PWR join forces to develop a manufacturing process for Aluminum F357 3D printed parts produced on the Sapphire® metal 3D printing system.

The announcement follows the recent Series D funding round of $28 million that Velo3D secured to expand its product portfolio, to include more machine options, compatible alloys, and enhanced software and hardware capabilities. 

PWR supplies advanced cooling solutions to a wide range of racing series including Formula 1, NASCAR, and to automotive, military, and aerospace industries.

One strong characteristic of the foundry-grade aluminum alloy is that it enables the production of AM parts that have traditionally been manufactured using casting practices

“Aluminum F357 has already been certified for mission-critical applications—unlike some exotic alloys—so it was a logical addition to our materials portfolio,” states Benny Buller, Founder and CEO of VELO3D. “We will continue to add more compatible materials that enable customers to print parts they couldn’t before, yet with even better material properties than traditional manufacturing.”

As a reminder, both companies worked together last year on material development and metal 3D Printing of heat exchangers.  “We chose Aluminum F357 due to its ideal material properties to suit thermal performance, machining and weldability,” states Matthew Bryson, General Manager for PWR.

“Our ability to print free-form and lightweight structures for heat transfer applications with our Sapphire system from VELO3D will further enhance performance and packaging optimization opportunities for our product range and provide significant value to our customers.”

This commercial release brings the total number of materials compatible with the Sapphire® 3D Printer to three: Titanium64, INCONEL® alloy 718, and Aluminum F357. A material datasheet for Aluminum F357 can be downloaded here.

Remember, you can post free of charge job opportunities in the AM Industry on 3D ADEPT Media or look for a job via our job board. Make sure to follow us on our social networks and subscribe to our weekly newsletter : Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn & Instagram ! If you want to be featured in the next issue of our digital magazine or if you hear a story that needs to be heard, make sure to send it to contact@3dadept.com