Investigations on the processing of ceramic materials using Fused Filament Fabrication

This paper represents the current status of the investigation into the processing of ceramic components, using Fused Filament Fabrication (“FFF”). The process chain, beginning from the additive manufacturing (“AM”), through the post processing, the debinding and sintering procedure, to the finished part is described. The examined materials are silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) and silicon carbide (SSiC), prepared by the company SiCeram/Qsil. Furthermore, comprehensive investigations on the materials are done, both in the green and in the sintered state. In addition, sources of occurring problems and defects in the process chain are pointed out and possible solutions are shown. Finally, the current status of investigations, regarding to the transfer into the industry, is discussed.