Airbus Group APWorks GmbH, Germany, in cooperation with Airbus Group R&D, has developed Scalmalloy, a high-performance scandium-aluminum magnesium powder metal alloy designed for additive manufacturing of high-strength aerospace structures. In addition to its high strength, Scalmalloy is also very tough, and has exceptional high-fatigue properties.
Scalmalloy is corrosion-resistant, and combines the low weight of aluminum with specific strength approaching that of titanium. In comparison, the AlSi10Mg aluminum silicon powder, widely used for additive manufacture, is only half as strong.
Airbus Group’s continued work in AlMgSc alloy technologies has resulted in development of the second-generation Scalmalloy. The maximum profile cross-sections for parts depend on the billet size, with possible diameters up to 15-18 inches. Scalmalloy provides robust solutions when high specific strength and exceptionally high corrosion resistance are needed – while also offering the additional advantages of robust manufacturing chains and low-cost production schemes. Additionally, it has the highest microstructure material stability for “low carbon footprint” applications.
This unique combination makes the alloy especially interesting for high-performance applications in the robotics, automotive, and aerospace industries. Together with the design freedom provided by metallic 3D printing, products can also have levels of functionality that were previously unattainable.
http://www.apworks.de/en/scalmalloy/
