Gute Poren – Erwünschte Porosität in SLM-Werkstücken

Abstract

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) offers new possibilities in part manufacturing that are of big interest for the tool making industry, particularly the manufacturing of very complex geometries like conformal cooling channels. While these channels are already state of the art in plastic injection moulding, metal forming industry starts to focus on SLM as well. In metal forming processes temperature control of the tools can have a significant influence on the quality of the parts produced. Regarding sheet metal forming the most important parameter to ensure accurate production is a continuous lubrication supply throughout the entire forming cycle. Since material properties, e.g. desired porosity, can be influenced and tuned by SLM-parameter variation, the properties can be optimized according to their applications in specific areas during the buildup process. Desired porosity in form of micro channels is applicable to stream or wet tool surfaces during forming cycles. Different SLM produced porous structures will be presented with a focus on their manufacturing parameters and on the results of trials to stream them with lubricants. Additionally an evaluation of production problems and barriers to apply them in fluid transportation parts is conducted.