| PowderRange | ‘F’ Metal Powders | ‘E’ Metal Powders |
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Particle size: |
Typically ranges from 15-53 microns (μm), with an average particle size of around 30μm |
Typically ranges from 45-106 microns (μm), with an average particle size of around 70μm |
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Characteristics: |
These powders are fine and provide excellent detail and surface finish |
These powders are coarser and provide higher deposition rates compared to finer powders |
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Applications: |
‘F’ powders are suitable for Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) |
‘E’ powders are suitable for Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion (EB-PBF, EBM or EBAM) or Directed Energy Deposition (DED) |
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Example Machine Platforms: |
Renishaw, Aconity, Trumpf, EOS, etc… |
Arcam, BeAM, Optomec, FormAlloy, etc… |
It's important to note that the ideal powder size may vary depending on the specific material and manufacturing process being used. Still unsure? Ask an expert.