1998 / Solid Freeform Fabrication Proceedings
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Author Zbigniew M. Bzymek, Scott Theis, Tariq Manzur, Chandra Roychaudhuri, Lianchao Sun, Leon L. Shaw, University of Connecticut at Storrs
Source Solid Freeform Fabrication Proceedings, 1998, pp 285-292
Abstract Solid Freeform Fabrication (SFF) technologies refer to the fabrication of physical parts directly from computer based solid models described by STL (Stereo Lithography) or VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) files generated by Computer-Aided Design (CAD) systems. Most of the SFF processes produce parts by building them layer by layer using a row by row pattern, though it is possible to build the part using other patterns. The SFF technology represents a challenge to designers who, in addition to making decisions concerning optimum shape and functionality of the entire part, have to take under consideration several other manufacturing factors. These factors cover a wide range of technical issues such as Computer-Aided Design model generation, part description and model slicing files, laser path files, precision of part design, rendering patterns, manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion and residual stress phenomena. This paper investigates the effect of rendering patterns on the integrity, material characteristics and mechanical properties of the parts prepared by a desk-top SFF device using diode lasers. Fe - Bronze (Cu - Sn) premixed metal powders were used as the starting material. The particle size was about 100 to 200 microns. Density, tensile strength and microstructure of the parts prepared using different rendering patterns were characterized. The results were analyzed to seek optimal rendering patterns. It was noticed that the samples were strong along the laser scanning direction, while they were weak perpendicular to the scanning direction. These results suggest that the laser scanning patterns should be designed to minimize the warping and maximize the strength of the part in the direction depending on the part's function. (Auth abstract) [References: 11]
Solid Freeform Fabrication Proceedings can be obtained from: The Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium
or contact:
The University of Texas at Austin
Laboratory for Freeform Fabrication / Texas Materials Institute
Mechanical Engineering Dept.
c/o The Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium
MC C2200
Austin, TX 78712-1063 USA
512-471-3026; 512-471-7681 FX; Email: sffsymp@uts.cc.utexas.edu