CP1: Pushing the Boundaries of Additive Metal Manufacturing with Constellium's Innovative Material

Additive manufacturing, often referred to as 3D printing, has revolutionized industries ranging from aerospace to healthcare. Additive manufacturing allows for complex geometries and customized components with unprecedented precision.

As this additive manufacturing process evolves, the role of materials in this field becomes increasingly significant. AnyShape consistently develops the latest materials, including high thermal conductivity metals, enhancing powder bed fusion and other additive manufacturing technologies. One material that has captured the attention of our engineering team is CP1 from Constellium, a global leader in advanced aluminum products. CP1’s unique properties and exceptional performance make it a clear choice for pushing the boundaries of what additive manufacturing can achieve.

What does CP1 Stand For?

CP1, short for Constellium Proprietary Alloy 1. It is a proprietary aluminum alloy that has been specifically engineered to excel in the realm of metal additive manufacturing. CP1 aluminum’s lightweight nature and highest thermal conductivity with tailored physical properties enhance its performance in the layer by layer additive manufacturing process, specifically in powder bed fusion, which enhances its performance during 3D printing processes. 

One of the standout features of CP1 is its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it particularly suitable for applications where both structural integrity and reduced weight are critical factors.

CP1, a game-changing material for metal additive manufacturing

Built for aerospace

In the aerospace industry, where every gram matters, and safety is paramount, CP1 offers a game-changing solution. 

CP1’s compatibility with advanced additive manufacturing technologies enables aerospace engineers to design intricate components that were previously deemed too complex or heavy to produce. This not only enhances the overall efficiency of aircraft but also opens doors to innovative design possibilities that were once thought to be impossible.

Superior Thermal Conductivity 

CP1 exhibits superior thermal properties compared to traditional aluminum alloys commonly used in additive manufacturing. Its excellent thermal conductivity ensures efficient heat flow and dissipation, minimizing  thermal stress and distortion during the printing process, which is crucial in maintaining a stable temperature gradient. This aspect is invaluable for creating components that demand precise tolerances and minimal distortion, such as components for advanced electronics or heat exchangers.

An Adaptable Alloy

Another key advantage of CP1 is its post-processing versatility, especially in managing heat conductionAdditively manufactured parts often require secondary treatments, such as heat treatment or surface finishing, to achieve their desired properties; CP1 responds well to these treatments. This allows AnyShape to fine-tune the material’s mechanical and thermal characteristics to meet specific application requirements.

A fully qualified material in the AnyShape material portfolio

AnyShape has now fully finalized the complete qualification of the CP1 in collaboration with Constellium. This showcases our symbiotic relationship between materials innovation, particularly in metal additive manufacturing processes, and the broader additive manufacturing industry. 

Its tailored properties, including a remarkable strength-to-weight ratio and the material’s thermal conductivity, make CP1 ideal for applications demanding high performance and intricate designs in various manufacturing sectors. 

As industries continue to explore the vast potential of additive manufacturing, materials like CP1 play a crucial role in turning these possibilities into reality. 

CP1’s unique attributes are set to redefine what is achievable through 3D printing, inspiring engineers and designers to reimagine the limits of their creations, whether it is aerospace, automotive, or any other field.

Want to know more?

Our expert team is on hand to assist you. As one of Europe’s most respected Additive Manufacturing specialists, AnyShape offers a full suite of in-house services. Turn to AnyShape for unmatched guidance through every stage of the 3D printing process. To discuss your next project, get in touch with AnyShape.