3D printing with metals is not only used in the industry, e.g. it is very popular for prototypes or machine parts, but also for jewelry designers and artists. Whether precise spare parts or filigree jewelery, in order to produce 3D objects made of metals, there are not only different processes (from layer printing to casting), but also a wide range of materials.
Whether gold, silver, platinum, bronze, copper, aluminum, brass or steel, whether 14 or 18 carats, the choice is diverse. Depending on the production process, 100% pure metal is used or, as with wood and sandstone, a mixture of metal (20-80%) and flux.
The printed objects can then be further processed and refined as desired. Whether raw, partially or completely ground, polished or oxidized, various techniques are available to achieve the desired surface effects.
Compared to other materials, objects made of metals (although they can be hollow inside) are often heavier than objects made of PLA, ABS or wood etc. and therefore have a very high quality and noble look. This also has its price, so metal filaments are much more expensive than other materials – apart from the gold, silver and platinum prices.
In short: Whether noble jewelery, creative art objects or precise industrial parts, with metals, fine, luxurious and high-quality 3D objects can be produced. The objects have not only neat weight, but also priceless prices – not just for designer pieces made of gold, silver or platinum.