Inconel 625, a nickel-based alloy is said to be the first single metal alloy for 3D printing industrial applications at greater than 99 per cent density according to ExOne which creates the metal using its binder jetting technology.

Inconel 625 is commonly used for components in the aerospace, chemical and energy sectors, with applications including gas turbine blades, filtration and separation, heat exchanger and moulding processes. The metal is considered desirable thanks to its oxidation and corrosion-resistant qualities and its ability to retain its strength in extreme environments.

The alloy, which was developed by ExMAL, ExOne's R&D arm, is scheduled to be released sometime in June. This introduction supports ExOne's strategy of qualifying at least two new industrial materials each year. Of particular interest, it has reportedly seen promising results in its attempts to develop a titanium-based material.