The Case for Cyclic Nucleation Process (CNP) Cleaning

Q: How do you remove the soils (metal particles) so that they do not redeposit on the part?

A: Filtration is the key to preventing redeposition. Having the proper filtration system and matching your filter size to the particle size is essential. You can also use some process steps to help. For example, you can run multiple short CNP cycles instead of one long CNP cycle.

Q: What other industries or applications can this be used for?

A: CNP can be used in any industry or application where surface cleanliness is critical. This includes traditional manufacturing where particle cleanliness is stringent, such as aerospace parts with complex geometries, fuel injectors, and medical parts. Another application for CNP is in the high purity and optics industries where surface cleanliness is paramount.

Q: Other than additively manufactured parts what types of parts can this be used for?

A: In Additive Manufacturing, any part with a complex geometry that needs complete or near complete particulate removal is a good fit for CNP. This includes implants and heat exchangers, as we have discussed, and many more. In the aerospace industry, various parts are made by joining several parts together. 3D printing allows us to make the whole part in one “print,” but there are several areas that are very difficult to access. These are a great fit for CNP.