Metallic part fabrication using selective inhibition sintering (SIS)

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the fundamentals of the selective inhibition sintering (SIS) process for fabricating dense metallic parts. Design/methodology/approach A SIS‐Metal process based on the microscopic mechanical inhibition is developed. In the process, salt solution is printed in the selected area of each powder layer; the salt re‐crystallizes when water evaporates; salt crystals decompose and grow rapidly prior to sintering; the generated salt particles spread between metal powder particles and prevent the fusing of these particles together, hence inhibiting the sintering process in the affected regions. Findings The SIS‐Metal process has numerous advantages. An inhibition of sintering mechanism is established for the future development of the technology. Through chemical and visual analysis using STM the mechanism for the inhibition phenomenon has been identified. Research limitations/implications Only bronze powder has been used in the research. Accordingly, the inhibition chemical has been engineered for this material choice. The approach should be feasible for other metals but a proper inhibitor would need to be found for each material choice. Practical implications The only limitation envisioned for the process may be the removal after sintering of inhibited sections in hard‐to reach areas using physical means such as scraping or vibration. Chemical removal of such sections should be possible, however. Originality/value The paper illustrates a new additive manufacturing technology for metallic parts fabrication.