C103 Niobium AM powder
Elmet Technologies specializes in producing C103 niobium AM powder designed for laser-powder bed fusion (L-PBF) additive manufacturing processes. This powder is characterized by low oxygen content, excellent flowability, and high apparent and tap densities. It is particularly suitable for rocket and jet propulsion applications used in spacecraft and launch vehicles.
One of the main advantages of this powder is its high strength, which remains effective at temperatures up to 2700 °F (1482 °C). Additionally, Elmet Technologies C103 niobium powder exhibits exceptional resistance to high-frequency vibrations at cryogenic temperatures. This property makes it ideal for many satellite applications due to its low ductile-to-brittle transition temperature.
C103 Niobium AM Powder: Specifications and Data
Physical Characteristics
| Property | L-PBF | DED |
| Bulk density, g/cc | > 4.5 | > 4.5 |
| Flow, s/50g | < 15 | < 17 |
| PSD, d10, µm | > 10 | > 40 |
| PSD, d90, µm | < 53 | < 150 |
Chemical Characteristics
| Element | Percent % |
| Nb | 88 min |
| Hf | 9 – 11 |
| Ti | 0.7 – 1.3 |
| Ta | 0.5 max |
| W | 0.5 max |
| Zr | 0.7 max |
| C | 0.015 max |
| O | 0.05 max |
ADVANTAGES of Nb-HF-Ti AM Powder
Manufacturers are increasingly turning to Nb-Hf-Ti AM powder in 3D printing to produce complex, high-performance parts designed to endure extreme conditions. This remarkable powder combines strength and lightweight properties, making it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications. Its adaptability in additive manufacturing plays a vital role in driving technological advancements.
Key benefits of this material include exceptional heat resistance, impressive corrosion resistance, and robust mechanical properties. Additionally, its outstanding ductility ensures versatility, making it indispensable for creating intricate shapes and advancing 3D printing innovations.
High-Performance C103 Niobium Powder
We expertly engineer C103 niobium AM powder with balanced amounts of niobium, hafnium, titanium, and other elements. We create this powder through an advanced process to ensure a consistent microstructure and tightly controlled properties. As a lightweight refractory metal, niobium delivers exceptional performance under extreme conditions. Also, C103 is a trusted choice for thruster nozzles and leading edges, critical in aerospace and defense.
C103 Niobium Powders for AM
| Powder Grades | Chemistry | Size | Other Notes |
| Nb | > 99.9% | L-PBF and DED | < 600ppm O2 |
| Ta | > 99.9% | L-PBF and DED | < 500ppm O2 |
| Nb-C103 | 9 – 11% Hf, 0.7 – 1.3%Ti | L-PBF | Excellent flowability, typically 300ppm O2 |
| TaW | 2.5 – 10% W | L-PBF and DED | DED size potentially available |
| Other Nb Alloys | FS-85 | FS-85 (Nb-28%Ta-10%W) |
A Global Leader in Refractory Metals
Elmet Technologies is a fully integrated US company with large facilities in Maine, Ohio, and Michigan. We offer an extensive product portfolio and unique services, including extrusion, rotary forging, hot and cold rolling, and additive manufacturing, providing a full range of refractory metal solutions.