Geometrical control of DED processes based on 3D scanning applied to the manufacture of complex parts
Iker Garmendia, Jon Flores, Mikel Madarieta, Aitzol Lamíkiz, L. Uriarte, Carlos Soriano
Abstract
Directed Energy Deposition (DED) processes are known for producing parts close to their final shape where only a post-process finish machining is required. However, geometrical deviations due to thermal effects may occur during the process, which results in the final geometry not being achieved or in the necessity of oversizing the part in order to compensate the distortion in the subsequent machining. In this article, a 3D scanning methodology of the manufactured part will be used to measure the geometry at different stages of the Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) process. In this way it is possible to assist the manufacturing as well as to make a comparison with the theoretical geometry during the process. This results in a higher probability of manufacturing the part without process failures and obtaining a precise reproduction of the geometry to be manufactured, reducing the subsequent post-processing operations and saving manufacturing time and cost.