LAUSR

Abstract Bimodal nano / micro powders are in demand in powder injection molding (PIM) and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. Feedstocks with bimodal powder have a higher flowability, and the resulting products have a higher density. In this work, a bimodal 316L steel powder obtained by the electric explosion of a wire (EEW) was investigated. The bimodal powder is formed directly during the explosion and does not require a mixing step. The powder was obtained at different explosion energy densities. A feedstock was obtained with a powder content of 94 wt%. The powders have a different micro: nano ratio depending on the energy density. Feedstocks with these powders have different rheological behavior. The morphology and chemical composition of the powders and the homogeneity and rheological properties of feedstock with bimodal powder were studied and discussed. A comparison of feedstock properties with bimodal and micron powder is carried out.