Metal processors need to get to know the new technology.
With its completely new material characteristics and ability to be injection moulded, Liquidmetal revolutionises the fabrication of high-quality metal components.
Both hard and elastic
Liquidmetal stands for a class of material with completely new characteristics. The zirconium alloys have an amorphous structure that makes Liquidmetal components extremely hard and at the same time very elastic. A hardness of 53 HRC is achieved even without any thermal treatment. The elasticity lies at 1.8 percent while in comparison steel has an elasticity of approximately 0.2 percent and titanium approximately1 percent.
Even the finest structures can be modelled efficiently using the Liquidmetal process
In addition, the Liquidmetal materials are characterised by a low specific weight as well as excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. This range of characteristics predestines them for use in precision and functional components that are subjected to high mechanical stresses. This opens up new opportunities from medical technology to electronics, automotive to aerospace and even sports equipment. Electronic components, surgical instruments and particularly high-quality decor elements will be among the first applications.
More efficient than CNC and MIM
The fact that these materials can be processed in injection moulding is another advantage, says Engel. Compared with the metal injection moulding (MIM) and CNC processing methods, this makes it possible to realise manufacturing concepts that are significantly more efficient and to achieve a higher level of automation and process integration. In just one single step and in short cycles, fit-for-purpose components with a very high-quality surface finish can be produced. Even sophisticated three-dimensional forms and very fine structures can be moulded with excellent reproducibility and material efficiency.
Liquidmetal alloy in possible automotive applications
As the exclusive machine manufacturing partner of Liquidmetal Technologies, which is located in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, USA, Engel is the only supplier worldwide offering injection moulding machines and integrated system solutions for the processing of Liquidmetal materials. A further partner is Materion Corporation, the material producer and distributor based in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, USA.
For further details contact Patrick Bracke of Greentech Machinery on TEL: 083 444 7012 or email patrick@greentechmachinery.co.za
