It seems backwards, but engineers from Northwestern University have made 3D printing metal easier (and eventually cheaper) by adding extra production steps to the procedure. (Paper available in PDF).
Scientists Just Developed Ultra-Strong Steel That Resists Rust Completely ...
Researchers have developed a new inexpensive method to 3D print metallic objects such as batteries, fuel cells and parts for rockets and airplanes, using rust and metal powders. While current methods ...