New Heat Treatment Boosts 3D-Printed Aircraft Alloy Strength

Aircraft engines use special metals that can handle extreme heat, like IN718.

When made using 3D printing, this metal isn't as strong against the heat.

Scientists found the problem: a metal called niobium doesn't spread evenly in 3D-printed parts.

This creates weak spots.

To fix it, they heated the metal differently, which helped the niobium spread out.

This made the metal much stronger and more able to withstand heat, making 3D-printed parts practical for engines.