Towards in-situ process monitoring in selective laser sintering using optical coherence tomography

Guangying Guan, Zeng H. Lu, Matthias Hirsch, Ruth Goodridge, David T.D. Childs, Stephen J. Matcher, Adam T. Clare, Kristian M. Groom

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

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 languageEnglish
Title of host publicationLaser 3D Manufacturing III
EditorsBo Gu, Henry Helvajian, Alberto Piqué
PublisherSPIE
Number of pages9
Volume9738
ISBN (Print)9781628419733
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 Apr 2016
Externally publishedYes
EventLaser 3D Manufacturing III - San Francisco, United States
Duration: 13 Feb 201618 Feb 2016
Conference number: 3

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume9738
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference

ConferenceLaser 3D Manufacturing III
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco
Period13/02/1618/02/16

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