Gränges Powder Metallurgy introduces S260 aluminium alloy for additive manufacturing sector

Gränges Powder Metallurgy from Germany is a subsidiary of Sweden-based Gränges AB. It has successfully launched its second aluminium alloy, which has a growing demand in the Additive Manufacturing industry. S260 AM, the highly durable aluminium alloy, belongs to the company's Dispal® portfolio that can be differentiated by incredible tribology features and high-wear resistance.

Silicon is essential in creating a mixture strong enough with Cu and Mg elements because of its fine matrix structure. The silicon has been evenly distributed along the aluminium alloy, which is beneficial for more accurate and long-lasting performances, with no requirement for additional coatings.

Another primary feature of this material, in contrast with the other Dispal® materials, is a lesser tendency of thermal expansion, which can be attributed to the silicon in the mixture.

The S260 AM is compatible with components that need to be machined on very tight tolerances and need to perform in extreme weather conditions where they are subjected to temperature fluctuations (e.g., oil pump gears). Spool valves can be manufactured directly with matching CTE to their manifolds and without additional manufacturing steps. Valves made of S260 AM can continuously support millions of cycles, outdoing steel valves.

The Director of Gränges Powder Metallurgy, Greta D'Angelo, explained: "We saw a big need, especially in the automotive industry, for an alloy that is lightweight, wear-resistant and at the same time has a low CTE. For many of our customers' weight reduction is a big driver, and additive manufacturing allows them to go even further without compromising on performance. Thanks to S260AM, our customers can break records and to do that more cost-effectively and with a shorter lead time."

Even though S260 AM is a big achievement for Gränges Powder Metallurgy in the Additive Manufacturing department, the company plans to unveil more essential alloys soon. Gränges is completely engrossed in yielding new materials along with referring to some of the difficulties Additive Manufacturing has faced till now, including high capacity and serial-wise production.