3D printing of metals – also called additive manufacturing – has only been developed in the last few years. The process involves making components by adding layers of material one by one. Messer has now introduced its new “Addline” product range especially for customers. The world’s largest family-run industrial gases specialist will be presenting the company and its products at Formnext this year. The world’s leading trade fair for additive manufacturing technologies, with over 600 exhibitors from 32 nations, will take place in Frankfurt on the Main from 19 to 22 November. At its stand (A69, Hall 11), Messer will provide advice and information on gas applications in additive manufacturing: gases are used as shielding, conveying or cooling gases in the printing process. The selection of gases depends on the particular material and process being used. Messer offers the right solution for a wide range of applications.

Messer has now introduced the new “Addline” product range especially for customers. These are gases for the actual printing of components on the one hand as well as gases for subsequent treatment of components and removing residual powder on the other. In most cases, subsequent heat treatment is necessary after the printing process. In the majority of printing processes, the type of gas required – and its purity – depends on the material.