PIM-like EAM of steel-tool alloy via bio-based polymer

This paper discusses an innovative additive manufacturing process, using a combination of polymer 3D printing by fused filament fabrication and powder metallurgy to create complex shaped, high density parts from powders without tooling. This process offers interesting prospects for reducing material waste and costs for prototyping or small series, as it does not require specific equipment. In this current work, the selected powder is a steel-tool alloy. The study covers the whole process, from the development of the feedstock material to its shaping including debinding and sintering steps, in order to manage all the steps to achieve a final component without defects and excellent mechanical and physical properties.