- a reduction in thermal stresses within formed components;
- lower system cost;
- and higher energy efficiency.
A combination of unique feedstock chemistry and careful process control will allow efficient extrusion of materials with a reduction in thermal gradients compared to powder bed fusion systems.
It is anticipated that lower thermal gradients generated during extrusion will allow parts to be created with minimum distortion and potentially reduce the number of supporting features normally required with powder bed fusion systems. Unsupported geometries may even be created and enhance design freedom.
The initial hardware investments are likely to be considerably lower compared to laser or electron beam based systems and promote easy access to this technology.
Operating at lower operating temperatures is also anticipated to reduce manufacturing costs.