Robust Additive Manufacturing of Components with Thin Walls and Narrow Channels
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | RISE Research Institutes of Sweden AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 4 900 000 |
| Project duration | April 2021 - October 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme for Production2030 |
| Call | SIP Produktion2030, call 13 |
Important results from the project
The ProThin project utilized LPBF process simulations and non-destructive quality assessments to develop a cost-effective methodology for evaluating process robustness. One use case focused on optimizing a fluid separator in stainless steel 316L. Another involved guide vanes in Inconel 939. The project achieved its goals, improving the fluid separator and generating valuable insights into LPBF process robustness, design optimization, and quality assessment.
Expected long term effects
The project demonstrated that simulation tools effectively reduce print failures, and CT scanning proved valuable for assessing narrow channels and product quality. Hence both are key to increasing LPBF adoption, along with robust post-processing tailored to specific materials and features. This project provided insights to help end-users plan for long-term improvements, addressing technical challenges and identifying suitable use cases to drive the adoption of LPBF technology.
Approach and implementation
The project was planned stepwise by all the board members. Activities were conducted collaboratively, with service providers working closely with end-users. Project result meetings were held biannually. Many activities required extensive inter-organizational coordination, supported by active and committed project partners who prioritized the work. This collaborative effort generated significant results and valuable learnings throughout the project´s duration.