Renishaw, pioneer of additive manufacturing, recently took a major step forward by enabling printing 3D platinum-rhodium, recognized as the most expensive metal in the world. Thanks to cutting-edge innovations, this technology is revolutionizing the production of precious metal elements, while meeting the challenge of optimizing manufacturing costs and reducing material waste. The combination of technical expertise and creativity opens the way to new applications in various sectors, placing Renishaw at the forefront of 3D printing.
Renishaw, a pioneer in additive manufacturing, recently collaborated with Cookson Industrial to revolutionize the production of components in rhodium platinum, recognized as one of the most expensive metals in the world, boasting an average price of £80,000 per kilogram. Thanks to their advanced technology, notably the system RenAM 500S Flex, they managed to reduce material waste to less than 0.5%, thus enabling economically viable manufacturing. This partnership not only optimized hardware efficiency, but also paved the way for new applications like catalysts and aeronautical engine nozzles. This innovation promises significant long-term savings while highlighting Renishaw’s commitment to innovation and excellence in metal 3D printing.
renishaw revolutionizes metal 3D printing
Renishaw has recently made waves in the world ofinnovation by engaging in 3D printing of one of the most expensive metals in the world, the rhodium platinum. With significant advances in their RenAM 500S Flexprinting system, the company has enabled Cookson Industrial to produce platinum rhodium parts with significant material efficiency. This challenge was particularly complex given the high costs, with an average price of £80,000 per kilogram for this precious metal.
a valuable collaboration between renishaw and cookson industrial
The synergy between Renishaw and Cookson Industrial has been essential in minimising material waste whilst maintaining the quality of the parts produced. The solution developed has reduced waste levels to less than 0.5%, a significant achievement compared to the 1.5%standard. With precise modifications to the system’s internal components, which have eliminated powder traps, this advancement has been instrumental in ensuring commercially viable production.
implications for the 3D printing industry
This success has captured the attention of 3D printing expertsand could open the door to new applications for platinum rhodium, particularly in areas such as catalysts and aerospace engine nozzles . A senior executive at Cookson Industrialsaid that the technology not only lowers production costs, but also makes large-scale manufacturing economically viable, promising significant savings in the long term.
