The Application of Oxygen Analyzers in the 3D Printing Industry


In the process of metal 3D printing, the use of high-precision oxygen sensors has the following three significant meanings: Prevent material oxidation and improve product quality.

In the process of metal 3D printing, the use of high-precision oxygen sensors has the following three significant meanings: 

 

1.Prevent material oxidation and improve product quality. 

 

Key role: Metal powders (such as titanium alloys, aluminum alloys, nickel-based superalloys, etc.) are highly prone to react with oxygen during high-temperature melting, resulting in oxide inclusions, pores or cracks, which significantly reduces the mechanical properties (such as strength, toughness, fatigue life) of the parts. 

 

High-precision advantage: Traditional oxygen sensors may only be able to detect oxygen content in the range of several %VOL, while high-precision sensors can monitor down to single-digit ppm or even ppb (parts per billion) levels, ensuring that the oxygen concentration is always below the oxidation threshold of the material (for example, titanium alloys typically require <50 ppm). 

 

2. Ensure process safety 

 

Explosion-proof and fire prevention: Metal powders such as aluminum and titanium have a high explosion risk in an oxygen-rich environment, especially when the particle size is extremely small (e.g., 20-50 microns), which may cause combustion due to static electricity or high temperature. High-precision sensors monitor the oxygen concentration in real time, and a fast-response inert gas replacement system can prevent such accidents. 

 

Health protection: Some metal oxides (such as beryllium oxide and nickel oxide) are toxic. A low-oxygen environment can reduce the risk of exposure for operators. 

 

3. High-Precision Oxygen Analyzer Recommendation 

 

The OXY-GC-168 oxygen analyzer is a highly reliable, compact and economical oxygen analyzer developed specifically for harsh environment applications. It features a fast-response zirconia sensor capable of measuring oxygen concentrations from 1 ppm to 25%. With its fast response, high accuracy and no need for regular calibration, this analyzer offers low maintenance and reliable performance for process control applications.