Defects in Additive Manufacturing Parts
Due to the complex thermal history during additive manufacturing, residual stress is typically induced in the produced part. Part failures such as cracks can occur. Post-heat treatments can be performed after additive manufacturing, but they add time and cost. Controlling residual stresses and optimizing process parameters can help reduce part failures.
Synchrotron CT for defect analysis of additively manufactured materials
Our imaging expertise enables us to detect defects such as cracks or pores in additively manufactured materials. Using high-resolution synchrotron computed tomography (CT), we can gain detailed insights into the shape and size distribution of the defects. This method provides an exact three-dimensional representation of the defects and where they are located, allowing weak points to be precisely located and analyzed.
Porosity Analysis
Neutron Diffraction for studying residual stresses in materials
Our expertise in the area of diffraction allows us to measure residual stresses in materials. Using neutron diffraction for residual stress analysis, we study changes in residual stresses within an engineering part non-destructively. This is particularly useful for additively manufactured parts, where residual stresses are often unavoidable due to thermal cycles during the process.
Residual Stress Analysis
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Answers to the most frequently asked questions
Neutron diffraction is a powerful technique for measuring residual stresses in additive-manufactured (AM) parts. It provides non-destructive, bulk stress analysis by penetrating deep into the material. Whether neutron diffraction is a suitable method depends on the material composition, part size, and crystal structure. In principle, any crystalline part larger than the gauge volume, i.e., probe size of the neutron beam is suitable for residual stress analysis.
Residual stress can be measured using neutron diffraction because neutrons, being deeply penetrating, allow for non-destructive measurements of stresses inside a material.
- Deep Penetration into Materials
- Non-Destructive
- 3D Stress Analysis
- Direct measurement, no sample preparation required
- Suitable for Complex Geometries
- Applicable to a Wide Range of Materials
Additive manufacturing (like selective laser melting or electron beam melting) builds parts layer by layer, involving rapid heating and cooling. This causes:
- High thermal gradients
- Complex residual stress fields throughout the part
Insights from customer projects
These projects show how we work with our customers to analyze complex material challenges and generate relevant insights using neutron and synchrotron techniques.
By using the advanced analytics of ANAXAM, Lincotek Additive gets a deeper insight and understanding about SLM-processed high temperature materials.”
Dr. Thomas Etter, Expert and Senior Engineer,
Lincotek AdditiveAdditive manufacturing (AM) is a key process in our production chain and vacuum leak tightness of our components is essential. Thanks to ANAXAM state-of-the-art analytical tools were utilized to investigate the properties and microstructure of our AM parts regarding leak tightness.”
Dr. Denys Sutter, CEO,
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