Case Study: Casing Extractor

Process: Metal Additive Manufacturing (AM)

Material: 17-4 PH stainless steel

Density: > 99% of theoretical density

Tensile Strength:1,300 MPa (189,000 psi)

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End Use and Function

This component is a casing extractor for pistols. It was endurance tested by civilian and military units, firing over 15,000 rounds using manufacturing prototypes prior to production, with no issues or degradation in performance.

Fabrication

Utilizing a layer-by-layer hybrid approach, combining the flexibility of binder and sinter 3D printing, the robustness and accuracy of CNC, and the scalability of MIM, while overcoming the drawbacks inherent to each process, these steps are repeated until the parts are fully formed. Proprietary de-binding and sintering cycles provide dimensional stability. The 17-4 PH stainless steel parts are heat treated, beadblasted and black electroless nickel plated for appearance, enhanced wear and corrosion resistance.

Results

Selecting this hybrid AM approach rather than MIM or expensive CNC machining enabled multiple design iterations to be evaluated in a very short time. With greater than 99% of theoretical density, surface finish of wrought machined parts, and faster time to market, the customer also enjoyed a 10-20% cost reduction.