SME CAM2 - Porous printed steel - Industrial Applications using PBF-EB for performance improvements and cost efficiency
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | VBN Components AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 100 000 |
| Project duration | April 2025 - December 2025 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Competence centre |
Purpose and goal
The project is conducted within the frame of the Competence center CAM2: The aim is to improve the performance and service life of bearings and wear-resistant components by incorporating local porosity. The project focuses on investigating applications of porous 3D-printed steels for the bearing industry. Porous bearings offer self-lubrication by storing lubricants (such as oil) in their pores. During operation, the lubricant is released by heat or pressure, reducing friction and eliminating the need for external lubrication.
Expected effects and result
The project is expected to result in a report on the design, 3D printing, characterization and optimization of porous structures, as well as methods for oil impregnation. It aims to identify suitable methods for oil impregnation of porous parts. Development of a prototype demonstrating an optimized porous structure will also be achieved, showing the potential for improved performance and self-lubrication in applications such as bearings.
Planned approach and implementation
The project will begin by investigating design and 3D printing parameters that affect controlled porosity, followed by a study of how HIP and heat treatment affect the 3D printed parts. Characterization will focus on quantifying the percentage of porosity and pore connectivity. Oil impregnation methods will be tested to evaluate their effectiveness in improving the self-lubricating properties of the porous structures.