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UK university invests in laser melt research
A
MTT Technologies Group product story
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team
Dec 10, 2003
Liverpool University is the first UK based institution to install selective laser melting technology for research into the manufacture of micro-heat exchangers and ultra-light components.
Liverpool University is the first UK based institution to purchase and install Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technology.
Developed by MCP Tooling Technologies, the SLM process is, according to the University's Dr.Chris Sutcliffe, "the most developed RP process for the manufacture of metal parts direct from elementary metal powders".
The investment will enable the university to undertake a research project which is part funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
This project, involving a dedicated team of four academics together with EPSRC research students, will cover research into the manufacture of micro-heat exchangers, ultra-light components for aerospace applications and implantable medical devices.
MCP is supporting the work, in conjunction with Stryker Howmedica Osteonics, a manufacturer of implantable devices, Sustainable Energy Systems, which develops sterling engines, and Osprey Metal Powders.
SLM technology is already being used commercially in Germany for the production of dental implants and sheet metal press tools.
MCP also anticipates uptake by customers worldwide for the rapid manufacture of pressure die casting tools, injection moulds, medical implants, and single metal or ceramic parts.
Launched last year, SLM is a laser operated process which produces up to 100% dense metal parts direct from CAD data.
The process can be used to manufacture parts from MCP's low melt alloys, zinc, bronze, stainless steel, tool steel, titanium, silicone carbide, aluminium oxide and cobalt chrome.
Parts do not require any post thermal treatment or infiltration with other materials and are polishable to a mirror finish.
The fully automatic, high speed building process is capable of producing 5cmý dense steel per hour.
Mechanical properties of SLM stainless steel parts are within normal stainless steel data parameters.
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