A background

• The team of researchers from Institute of Materials Science, Joining and Forming at Technische Universität Graz has developed the modification process of steel powders utilised for Selective Laser Melting (SLM) that allow to eliminate the need of supporting the printed components during the printing process. This extends freedom of design by enabling a unique feature of horizontal printing without supports. The process allows also for recycling the old powders and brings back their initial characteristics. With this unique technology it is planned to enter the rapidly growing market of powders for powder-based additive manufacturing.

The project scope:

• In the course of the Spin-Off Fellowship project, the technology is to be brought to market readiness through detailed engineering of upscaling of the powder modification process. Powders will be then validated on few different SLM systems. The background for the company will be paved both through the development of competences relevant for setting up the company and by assembling a professional team of future founders. The business-site of the project is strongly supported by the Institute of General Management and Organisation.

Vision Spin-OFF:

• To disrupt the existing market of steel powders for SLM by offering an extended freedom of design enabled by a unique feature of horizontal printing without supports
• In the course of the 18 months (till Sep 2020) the Spin-Off is to become an important player in the supply chain for OEM manufacturers assisted by 3D printing technology.