Abstract
Selective laser sintering (SLS) enables fast, flexible and cost-efficient production of parts directly from 3D CAD data. However, compared with more established machine tools, there is a marked lack of process monitoring and feedback control of key process variables to optimize production parameters in-situ. We apply optical coherence tomography (OCT) to evaluate components produced by SLS and suggest a route for its application in in-situ process monitoring within the SLS tool for real-time monitoring of the SLS process for assurance, or even dynamic correction of defects during the build. OCT is shown to be a viable technique for evaluation of both surface and sub-surface features built into a part either by design or from poor sintering or non-homogeneous powder spreading. We demonstrate detection and quantification of surface defects on a ∼30 μm scale in a Polyamide (PA2200) part, resolving 'built-in' fine features within a 200 to 400μm depth below the surface.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Laser 3D Manufacturing III |
Editors | Bo Gu, Henry Helvajian, Alberto Piqué |
Publisher | SPIE |
Number of pages | 9 |
Volume | 9738 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781628419733 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 6 Apr 2016 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | Laser 3D Manufacturing III - San Francisco, United States Duration: 13 Feb 2016 → 18 Feb 2016 Conference number: 3 |
Publication series
Name | Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering |
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Volume | 9738 |
ISSN (Print) | 0277-786X |
ISSN (Electronic) | 1996-756X |
Conference
Conference | Laser 3D Manufacturing III |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | San Francisco |
Period | 13/02/16 → 18/02/16 |