Key Takeaways
- VBN Components has developed a new method for creating wear-resistant slurry pumps using 3D printing and cemented carbide materials.
- The company's Vibenite materials have been used to create a Vibenite Nucleation Net Zone (VNNZ), which enables precise placement of wear-resistant material inside the mold.
- This approach allows for the creation of parts with improved wear resistance, while also reducing the complexity and cost associated with traditional casting methods.
- The use of 3D printing in key wear areas can extend the lifetime of slurry pumps and has broader applications in larger assemblies.
Introduction to VBN Components and 3D Printing
VBN Components, a Swedish firm, has been at the forefront of developing high-performance, high-wear additive powders for 3D printing. With a focus on high-carbide-content materials, the company has introduced the hardest 3D printing steel to the market, as well as biocompatible materials. Recently, VBN Components has collaborated with an unnamed pump company to develop a new approach to creating industrial components, specifically slurry pumps.
The Vibenite Nucleation Net Zone (VNNZ) Technology
The VNNZ technology allows for the creation of a nucleation net zone in Vibenite 480, a 66 HRC cemented carbide material. This zone enables the precise placement of wear-resistant material inside the mold, significantly extending the lifetime of the pump. The VNNZ eliminates the issue of molten cast iron melting or intermixing with the printed inserts, ensuring structural integrity and strong metallurgical bonding during casting.
Comparison of Traditional Casting Methods and 3D Printing
| Method | Material | Wear Resistance | Complexity | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Casting | Cast Iron | Low | High | High |
| 3D Printing with VNNZ | Vibenite 480 | High | Medium | Medium |
Benefits and Applications of the VNNZ Technology
The VNNZ technology offers several benefits, including improved wear resistance, reduced complexity, and lower cost. This approach can be applied to larger assemblies, where 3D printing can be used to create wear-resistant components in specific areas, rather than printing the entire part. This can lead to significant cost savings and improved performance.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, VBN Components' VNNZ technology has the potential to revolutionize the creation of industrial components, particularly slurry pumps. By combining 3D printing with cemented carbide materials, the company has developed a method for creating parts with improved wear resistance, while also reducing complexity and cost. With its broader applications in larger assemblies, this technology is expected to have a significant impact on the industry, enabling the creation of more efficient and durable components.