Review of Sinter-Based Additive Manufacturing (SBAM) - Status and Prospects

Abstract

Today there is a huge and growing number of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. Since LPBF as dominating AM technology of metals has limitations in terms of geometries and materials as well as in productivity, sinter-based additive manufacturing (SBAM) processes are becoming increasingly important. Metal Binder Jetting (MBJ) or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) are the most well-known SBAM processes. Furthermore, new processes such as MoldJet (MJ), Cold Metal Fusion (CMF) or Lithography-based Metal Manufacturing (LMM) are attracting widespread attention due to their promising properties. In this review, the status of the most important sinter-based processes is highlighted and compared with LPBF. All technologies have pro´s and con´s, therefore a detailed analysis of the main features is the key to select the right technology for the intended application. At the same time, it is becoming apparent that there is still a development need in accompanying processes (e.g., heat treatment, sinter simulation). Future development trends and the market potential of SBAM processes will be discussed.