Abstract Scope |
The discrete element method (DEM) is a popular numerical modeling approach for simulating particle dynamics in additive manufacturing (AM) processes that involve powder feedstocks. Constitutive material properties are required to adequately model realistic particle interactions. Certain parameters, such as the density and elastic modulus of the bulk material, are either straightforward to measure or well-established in the literature. Other parameters, specifically those underlying energy dissipation and particle cohesion, require involved experimental calibration due to their sensitivity to particle morphology, environment, powder processing methods, and various other factors. In this work, we present experimental calibration approaches for important DEM parameters in AM applications. Particle contact friction and cohesion is effectively tuned via powder rheometery and angle of repose experiments, respectively. The coefficient of restitution for stainless steel, titanium, and nickle alloy powder systems is measured using microscopic, high-speed imaging. |