Periodic Reporting for period 1 - Ultra3DPrint (Unlocking the potential of laser 3D printing with ultrasound)
Periodo di rendicontazione: 2022-09-01 al 2024-08-31
A key barrier to metal 3D printing in the industry is the large crystals and voids that occur in most printed products, affecting their serviceability. Recently, a method of introducing high-frequency sound waves into metal products during printing has shown promise to control the formation of crystals and voids. This research will employ advanced modelling and synchrotron x-ray imaging techniques to fully understand the 3D printing of metals assisted by sound waves. Such an understanding would help to position 3D printing as a competitive technology to produce high-quality and reliable metal products.
The fellow has designed bespoke ultrasound equipment for implementation into an x-ray imaging system for in situ x-ray imaging of the melt pool in ultrasound-assisted laser 3D printing. The fellow has outsourced the manufacturing of the ultrasound system to a German-based company Sonic Power GmbH CO & KG.
A competitive manufacturing sector in the European Union (EU) is vital for job creation and economic growth in the region. However, low-cost developing countries are challenging the competitiveness of EU manufacturing industries. The European Commission (EC) has identified 3D printing as a Key Enabling Technology that is expected to produce high-value-added products across all major industrial sectors, including aeronautics, automotive, biomedical, construction, space, and many others. Further, the EC has deemed that 3D printing is likely to create skilled jobs and local manufacturing, presenting an opportunity to bring outsourcing jobs back to Europe.