When aluminum comes into contact with air, it oxidizes and creates a thin layer of aluminum oxide. Although copper offers a higher level of oxidation resistance, it still reacts with oxygen. The reaction creates copper oxide, which produces a telltale blue-green patina on the metal. In some cases, the oxide layer weakens the underlying metal,…
Metal additive manufacturing (AM) is increasingly important across a range of industries. Compared to traditional manufacturing, AM is faster and more flexible; it also offers greater design freedom for complex geometries. The technology is poised to cut costs and streamline production environments. First, however, engineers and researchers must overcome common 3D printer limitations and develop…
Additive manufacturing (AM), more commonly referred to as 3D printing, has advanced in nearly every aspect since its inception. This revolutionary manufacturing process can handle a wide range of materials with high levels of precision. Additive manufacturing can achieve this by introducing material in exact locations during production, rather than removing it from a solid…
Aluminum is one of the most known commercial metals, with nearly every household having an aluminum product at any given time. This is due in part to the metal’s sheer versatility and light weight, paired with its natural corrosion resistance. The ductile composition of aluminum lends it to applications of all shapes and sizes but…