About this Abstract |
Meeting |
2025 Annual International Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (SFF Symp 2025)
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Symposium
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2025 Annual International Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (SFF Symp 2025)
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Presentation Title |
A Parametric Workflow for Brazing-Ready, Self-Supporting Metal AM Components With Recoverable Features |
Author(s) |
Andrei Alexandru Popa, Fatma Nur Depboylu |
On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Andrei Alexandru Popa |
Abstract Scope |
This study introduces a semi-automated workflow for generating self-supporting metal AM structures for torch and vacuum brazing. Maintaining contact and alignment during brazing is critical—particularly for large, complex assemblies where conventional fixturing is costly, wasteful, and shape-specific. Leveraging the design freedom of AM, sacrificial and recoverable features are embedded directly into parts and generated via a Grasshopper 3D visual programming interface. Users can tune up to four geometric parameters to rapidly create application-specific support geometries. The workflow enables interference fits with adjustable offsets for various filler materials. Sacrificial features are designed to be re-powderized into feedstock, reducing waste. Joints fabricated using this method have been mechanically characterized to assess strength and reliability under relevant loading conditions. Preliminary results demonstrate strong potential for scaling this approach into a fully generative design method, enabling self-supporting joints and large monolithic components—as seen in fusion systems—to be produced without external fixtures. |
Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: Post-meeting proceedings |