Laser Powder Bed Fusion is an additive manufacturing process in which thermal energy
(from a laser) selectively fuses regions of a powder bed layer by layer.
The end part(s) can be extremely complex and contain features not possible with
conventional subtractive manufacturing processes. Common terms used for this technology
include: Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), Direct
Metal Laser Melting (DMLM), Laser CUSING, and more.
Benefits of Powder Bed Fusion-Laser:
- Focused laser offers small feature size and good surface finish
- Ability
to create complex feature(s) and internal cavities
- Wide range of available materials
and growing
- Material is recyclable
- Part density can be > 99%
-
Fine microstructure characteristics
- Open parameter equipment allows modifications
for build enhancements
Specialized Equipment:
Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC) purchased an all-in-one SLM 280
HL
3D printer after an extensive research process. With the SLM Solutions printer,
CTC can create metal parts using various materials including aluminum, titanium,
stainless steel, cobalt-chromium and others. The SLM 280
HL is an all-in-one
selective laser melting machine with a build envelope of 280 x 280 x 350 mm. The
SLM 280
HL is used for continuing research and development efforts at
CTC, where we innovate and build upon industry knowledge of metal additive manufacturing.
The equipment is also utilized for small production runs, prototyping and addressing
client needs. Additional SLM equipment is anticipated.
Parts Manufacturing:
Powder Bed Fusion technology is being used to manufacture many and varied complex
parts in the aircraft industry, as well as supporting a wide range of prototype
applications in other areas of manufacturing. The process is becoming more commonplace
in industry, but still lacks standards for widespread acceptance. While standards
are not yet available, there are opportunities for this technology to be utilized.
Proper post treatment of the parts can eliminate porosity, and/or produce desired
properties for most applications. Additional test coupons can be fabricated and
tested with each build to ensure consistency and evaluate quality and strength.
Depending on the size of the part(s), multiple components can be arranged and fabricated
in a single build scheme. Material change outs on the equipment are common.
Why Concurrent Technologies Corporation?
Concurrent Technologies Corporation is an all-encompassing service provider for
Additive Manufacturing solutions. We offer complete process execution including
reverse engineering, development of process parameters, powder and substrate characterization,
surface profile preparation, material application, finish machining and inspection.
We also provide services to evaluate, validate and qualify the repair through mechanical
and physical property characterization. All processes are controlled in-house to
ensure quality results.
Concurrent Technologies Corporation’s quality management system is certified to
the ISO 9001:2008 (Quality) and 14001:2004 (Environmental) standards. Its technology
transition affiliate, Enterprise Ventures Corporation (EVC), is certified to the
AS9100 standard for aerospace activities.
