Abstract Scope |
Laser powder bed fusion machines are complex systems comprised of a number of interconnected sub-systems which work in concert during the laser powder bed fusion process. The health, i.e. consistency in performance, of these complex systems must be monitored and verified to ensure consistency in the process during long-term production. If a system is 'unhealthy' the process becomes less controlled and can lead to decreased part quality. To monitor and validate that a machine is healthy, a number of tests were developed. The tests discussed are: laser power, multi-laser alignment, laser position, laser beam characteristics, cover gas flow, z-axis verification, and overall machine condition. The methodology and efficacy of each test is discussed along with additional potential tests and next steps. This work was funded by The Department of Energy’s Kansas City National Security Campus is operated and managed by Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies, LLC under contract number DE-NA0002839. |