TANAKA FIRST TO DEVELOP A PLATINUM-BASED MATERIAL FOR 3D PRINTING

Tanaka's Invention Opens New Avenues for SLS 3D Printing

Japanese precious metal materials manufacturer Tanaka Holdings has developed a platinum-based metallic glass powder and a platinum metallic powder. The materials have been developed for use with selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printers. Having secured a patent for their platinum metallic glass in 2004, it has taken Tanaka ten years to realize the ideal particle diameter and fluidity for use with current SLS 3D printers. Tanaka believe they are the first to create a platinum-based metallic glass material suitable for 3D printing. Platinum is a much sought after material in the electronics, semiconductor and aerospace and automotive industries due to its durability and high melting point.