Sand 3D Technology Showcases BJ Binder Jetting Metal/Ceramic and SLM Gradient Metal Printing at the 2025 China International Powder Metallurgy Exhibition

On March 10, 2025, the 17th China International Powder Metallurgy, Cemented Carbide, and Advanced Ceramics Exhibition (PM CHINA) grandly commenced at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center. Beijing Sand 3D Technology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Sand 3D Technology") participated in the event, presenting its BJ binder jetting metal/ceramic and SLM gradient metal 3D printing solutions.  

Picture: 3D Technology Co., Ltd. on-site demonstration of the BJ binder jetting metal 3D printer 3DPTEK-J160R

During the exhibition, 3D Technology Co., Ltd. shared a keynote report titled "Binder Jetting 3D Printing Empowering Powder Metallurgy" at the Injection Molding Forum. The report pointed out that traditional Metal Injection Molding (MIM) faces challenges such as high upfront investment, high mold opening costs, and limitations in product size. In contrast, 3D Technology Co., Ltd. has achieved moldless manufacturing, complex structure formation, and large-size molding through Binder Jetting 3D Printing (BJM) technology, providing a more efficient and lower-cost solution for the powder metallurgy industry.

BJ Binder Jetting Metal/Ceramic Printing Solutions  

Sand 3D Technology has independently mastered critical technologies in BJ equipment, materials, and processes, excelling in fine-powder spreading, powder bed densification, high-precision dimensional control, binder material development, and debinding/sintering techniques. The company has developed a series of binder jetting 3D printers, including the 3DPTEK-J160R, J400P, and J800P, which integrate precision feeding systems, high-density powder spreading mechanisms, and high-resolution inkjet printing control. These advancements address challenges related to fine, low-flowability powder handling and densification while pushing the boundaries of high-resolution (800-1200 dpi) and high-precision (±0.1mm) printing, achieving a maximum forming efficiency of 3600cc/h—reaching globally advanced technical standards.  

Picture: BJ Metal/Ceramic 3D Printers 3DPTEK-J160R, 3DPTEK-J400P/J800P

In addition, Sand 3D Technology has established a comprehensive binder material system through years of dedicated research. Its portfolio includes over 20 process formulations based on water-based eco-friendly binders and solvent-based high-efficiency binders. These solutions enable the forming of stainless steel, tool steel, titanium alloys, copper alloys, high-temperature alloys, and cemented carbides, as well as ceramic materials like silicon carbide (SiC) and non-metallic materials such as PMX crystalline wax, inorganic salts, food-grade substances, pharmaceuticals, and polymer composites. Through systematic research on high-density debinding and sintering processes, Sand 3D Technology has achieved precise control over the morphology and properties of metal and ceramic products during post-processing, ensuring that the final mechanical properties surpass international MIM (Metal Injection Molding) material standards.  

Furthermore, in collaboration with leading academic institutions such as Shenzhen Polytechnic, Tsinghua University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Science and Technology Beijing, Sand 3D Technology is driving research into binder jetting-based material forming technologies. This initiative is fostering industrial applications in complex ceramic products, industrial molds, cutting tools, and 3C electronics.  

SLM Laser Metal Printing Solutions  

Sand 3D Technology has independently developed a suite of SLM selective laser melting metal 3D printers, including the AFS-M120/M400 series, the AFS-M120X(T) gradient metal printer, and the AFS-M300XAS multi-material additive-subtractive hybrid manufacturing system. These systems facilitate the fabrication of stainless steel, titanium alloys, aluminum alloys, tool steels, cobalt-chromium alloys, and nickel-based alloys.  

Picture: SLM (Gradient) Metal 3D Printing Series Equipment of 3D Technology Co., Ltd.

The AFS-M120X(T) gradient metal printing system is designed for the research and development of composite metal materials, enabling precise multi-material powder deposition with horizontal and vertical gradient transitions. This innovation reduces process complexity, conserves raw materials, and enhances research efficiency, making it highly applicable in high-throughput material development for aerospace, automotive, medical, and tooling industries. Additionally, the AFS-M300XAS multi-material additive-subtractive hybrid manufacturing system supports up to four different material gradients, achieving seamless horizontal transitions and vertical material composition adjustments.  

Picture: 316L-Cu10Sn, 316L-Copper Continuous Gradient Alloys

Currently, Sand 3D Technology has forged partnerships with esteemed institutions such as the University of Science and Technology Beijing, Shandong University of Technology, Lanzhou University of Technology, Beihang University, the Beijing General Research Institute of Iron & Steel, and the Shenyang Institute of Automation to continuously advance cutting-edge, practical solutions for functional gradient metal materials.  

For those interested in exploring how 3D printing empowers powder metallurgy, visit Sand 3D Technology at Booth A735 in Hall H1 of the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center on March 11-12. We look forward to engaging with you!