Additive manufacturing feedstock: EOS officially unveils its Aluminum Al5X1 aluminium alloy

According to EOS, the Al5X1 3D printing material exhibits a 14% elongation with an ultimate tensile strength of 410 MPa. The material requires only a single-step heat treatment with no Hot Isostatic Pressing, resulting in quicker and more cost-effective part manufacturing. Additionally, parts printed in EOS Aluminum Al5X1 can be electropolished and anodised with no limits to potential colour choices for cosmetic and corrosion-resistant properties.

The CEO and founder of Sintavia, Brian Neff, stated: “Since early 2023, we have been working to develop Al5X1 performance data and material allowable on behalf of our prime customers.”

“Preliminary results are very promising, and we look forward to introducing Al5X1 across our thermodynamic product lines. Developing a higher performing aluminium alloy is of critical importance not only to us but also to the industry as a whole,” Neff clarified.

The Senior Manager of Metals Technology at EOS, Dr Ankit Saharan, quoted: “A combination of high strength and high elongation for an aluminium alloy is critical for manufacturers in industries like aerospace, but equally crucial is delivering the property combination at a reasonable cost.”

“Also interesting is that since the material can be anodised, this makes it very attractive to OEMs in areas like consumer electronics, which are seeking to produce different coloured products to suit customers preferences, with the added bonus of corrosion resistance,” Saharan added.

Multiple organisations in the aerospace, semiconductor and defence industries have tested the material, providing feedback that the exceptional performance combined with the competitive cost-per-part creates a strong business case for production implementation.