Bauteilcharakterisierung von PBF-LB/P gefertigten Bauteilen auf der Grundlage von unterschiedlichen Anlagekonzepten

Abstract

In the field of additive manufacturing of plastics, laser-based powder bed fusion of plastics (PBF-LB/P) is the most promising process in terms of typical industrial requirements. The technology, which is based on the layer-by-layer melting of plastic powder by using laser radiation, is primarily used in automotive engineering, aerospace, and medical technology. Since the expiration of the PBF-LB/P patent in 2014, new technology companies are gradually entering the development of PBF-LB/P systems. The market, which was previously dominated by industrial systems, such as those from 3D-Systems (USA) and EOS (D), is increasingly being offered cheaper low-cost entry-level models (so-called benchtop systems). These represent a suitable alternative, especially for medium-sized companies, due to the lower entry costs. The aim of this publication is a part characterization of PBF-LB/P-manufactured components (geometric accuracy, mechanical properties, surface quality and cost-effectiveness) based on these different machine concepts.