Gerhard Dipl-Ing Leichtfried

Title: Gerhard Dipl-Ing Leichtfried: Innovator in Additive Manufacturing

Introduction

Gerhard Dipl-Ing Leichtfried, based in Reutte, Austria, is a notable inventor with a remarkable portfolio of 18 patents. His work primarily focuses on the field of additive manufacturing, particularly involving refractory metals. Leichtfried's innovations are paving the way for advancements in manufacturing processes that require high heat resistance.

Latest Patents

Leichtfried's latest patents showcase his expertise in additively manufactured components and processes. One of his key inventions is an additively manufactured refractory metal component, designed to be created using a laser or electron beam. This component features a solid structure made from materials like molybdenum and tungsten, among others. The innovative design includes alloying elements that contribute to a reducing effect in high-temperature applications, exhibiting exceptional performance at temperatures above 1500° C.

Another significant patent by Leichtfried involves an additively manufactured component, which consists of fused powder particles that achieve a solid structure through a high-energy beam. Notably, the oxygen content in these components is kept below 0.1 at %, ensuring they remain crack-free and possess high grain boundary strength. The production method also includes producing powder via the melt phase while maintaining a carbon content of not less than 0.15 at %.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Leichtfried has worked with notable companies including Plansee SE and Schwarzkopf Technologies Corporation. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his deep understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, which is reflected in his patent portfolio.

Collaborations

Leichtfried has collaborated with esteemed professionals in his field, including Wolfram Knabl and Ralf Eck. These collaborations have fostered innovation and shared expertise, further enhancing the quality and applicability of his inventions in the industry.

Conclusion

Gerhard Dipl-Ing Leichtfried's contributions to additive manufacturing are significant, highlighting his role as an innovator in the development of refractory metal components. With a focus on high-performance materials, his patents demonstrate an impressive blend of advanced technology and creative engineering solutions, marking him as a key figure in the ongoing evolution of manufacturing processes.