 Schematic of additive friction stir deposition [1] | Additive friction stir deposition is a novel metal additive manufacturing technology [1]. A low-temperature and low-cost additive process, it enables fast, scalable manufacturing of metal alloys and composites [2-4]. |
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 Schematic of the new setup [1] by N. Holt et al. Researchers in the AM3 lab, at the university of Arkansas, have demonstrated the potential for a new low-costs powder bed AM technique for the manufacturing of micro-components made of low-melting temperature (~600C) powders [1]. Unlike Selective Laser Sintering and Selective Laser Melting that employ a laser beam scanned across the powder bed, the new concept, referred to as MAPS for Micro-Array Powder Sintering, employs arrays of micro-heaters as energy sources. This proof-of-concept could increase build speeds and reduce powder waste and running costs.
Depending on the mechanism involved in its creation, each type of particles has specific physical characteristics that can impact powder recyclability and contribute defects to the final products. Two key mechanisms are responsible for spatter formation and powder bed denudation in the vicinity of the laser track. Let’s have a look at these.
So it’s best to make sure you have all the unbiased facts at hand to invest your cash sensibly.
In the next 3 articles, we’ll review the points you will want to keep in mind before you invest in AM technology. Hardware, ease of use, maintenance and end-products quality are a few topics you’ll want to discuss in detail with the suppliers. In the first part, let’s have a look at the hardware itself and what you should pay attention to. |
