The South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has successfully produced 316L stainless steel powder using a newly installed ultrasonic atomization system. The plant was co-funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and is designed to produce metal powders from reactive and non-reactive materials. The aim is to create a locally available, high-quality source of raw materials for 3D printing, which was previously dependent on imports.
The metal powder obtained by ultrasonic atomization is specially developed for use in powder bed-based additive manufacturing processes. Precise particle size distribution, good flow properties and a uniform packing density are important here. These parameters are continuously monitored by analytical methods to ensure processing quality.
Dr Miemie Maminza, who leads the Powder Metallurgy Technologies research group at the CSIR, elaborates on the importance of this development: “Our aim has been to create a sustainable local supply of high-quality stainless-steel powder, which currently has significant demand in the additive manufacturing space. Utilising our capabilities and expertise, we believe we can contribute to the establishment of locally produced powder to grow the AM industry. We are excited about the potential this holds for driving industrial growth and localisation.”
Dr Ntombi Mathe, a principal researcher in AM at the CSIR, highlights the broader impact of these advancements: “By manufacturing our own metal powders and developing printers, we are fostering an ecosystem where innovation breeds economic empowerment; advancing in technology, supporting local businesses, and creating job opportunities. This approach leads to a cycle of positive economic growth and development.”
Initial applications of the powder have been realized in the form of 3D printed prototypes, including using the Hyrax system developed by South African company Aditiv Solutions.
Gerrie Lombaard, Director of Metal Heart expressed confidence that this powder meets industry standards and showed enthusiasm for switching to it, he stated, “After reviewing the report on the initial batch production of 316L stainless steel powder produced by the CSIR, Metal Heart has found the quality of this domestic powder to align with that of internationally sourced materials. The powder meets standards in aspects such as oxygen content, density, particle size and morphology. Therefore, Metal Heart is confident in using this powder for their production processes, anticipating no compromise in quality.”
Beeuwen Gerryts, Chief Director of Technology Localisation, Beneficiation and Advanced Manufacturing at the DSTI, said, “The CSIR is to be congratulated on this milestone, which was achieved with DSTI and NRF funding, as this is an important step in helping to strengthen the upstream additive manufacturing value chain and to increase the local national capacity in powder processing. We look forward to receiving further positive feedback on how the technology can be scaled up to match industry demand at competitive prices.”
The initiative is part of a broader project to strengthen national manufacturing capacities. The project is intended to contribute to the country’s economic independence and technological expertise in the medium term.
Metal Binder Jetting: The Key to Efficient Tool Manufacturing? - Exclusive Insights from INDO-MIM
Fill out the form and get instant access to an exclusive webinar on HP's Metal Binder Jetting 3D printing technology with exciting insights from INDO-MIM.Subscribe to our Newsletter
3DPresso is a weekly newsletter that links to the most exciting global stories from the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry.
