Scandium-Aluminum Alloy 3D printed parts: developing and validating a domestic value chain

VALIMET will utilize one of its domestic approved suppliers to procure Aluminum -Scandium alloy containing 0.5-1.0% Sc.   Atomization conditions will be established to optimize the powder particle size distribution of the powder to maximize the yield of the finished powder into AM sized (nominally 15-63um) material.   The atomization chamber will be placed in an inert nitrogen environment. Atomization will occur in small (<1,000lbs) runs each day.  Each small batch of powder will be tested for particle size distribution (PSD). The atomized powder will be classified, screened and blended to meet the PSD for AM grade. Yields are expected to be >50%. The AM grade powder will be packed and shipped to Mimo Technik to print test samples to validate printability and properties.  VALIMET will use a 3rd party lab to validate any results of powder/parts.