Production of non-oxide ceramic granulated feedstock for powder bed additive manufacturing

Powder bed fusion (PBF) is an additive manufacturing technique that minimises material waste but faces challenges when processing non-oxide ceramics due to the poor flowability of fine powders.

Homogeneity in powder blends is crucial for reducing separation and enhancing flowability, with particle size, shape, and density being key parameters. Milling, spray drying, and granulation are therefore commonly used to manipulate particle size and shape to improve homogeneity.

In this study, the outcome of several processing steps was analysed to measure their impact on powder homogeneity and therefore their suitability for improving the likelihood of successful PBF prints using granulated feedstock.

Authored by Katie Hadley, the case study presents work undertaken at The AMRICC Centre alongside MICG partner Lucideon and was supported and partly funded by UK Research and Innovation through the Strength in Places Fund Programme.

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