Renishaw software analyzes laser additive-manufacturing process data, improves consistency

To allow additive manufacturing (AM) users a greater understanding of their processes, Renishaw (Wotton-under-Edge, UK) has developed new process-monitoring software that it calls InfiniAM Spectral, for use on Renishaw systems. After launch of the software at formnext 2017 (Nov. 14 to 17, 2017; Frankfurt, Germany), Renishaw released the software package to help manufacturers overcome the barriers to AM in critical applications, process stability and part quality.

Laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF) builds components from millions of laser exposures. This process must be highly accurate to produce a functional part. However, there are sources of variation that can occur during the build process that can produce anomalies that impact the longevity of the part. Real-time spectral monitoring technology enables manufacturers to gather melt-pool data to enable traceable production and process optimization.

InfiniAM Spectral is part of a developing family of products that helps users capture, evaluate and store process data from Renishaw LPBF technologies. The software enables data capture, presentation and analysis, representing a powerful tool for developing a deep understanding of the AM process. The new software offers two measurement functions in the sensor modules. The first module, LaserVIEW, uses a photosensitive diode to measure the intensity of the laser energy. The second module, MeltVIEW, captures emissions from the melt pool in the near-infrared and infrared spectral ranges. These two sensor signals can be compared to help identify discrepancies.

Real-time analysis of process data

MeltVIEW and LaserVIEW stream data across a conventional computer network on a layer-by-layer basis so manufacturers can analyze process-monitoring data in real time. As the build progresses, the data is rendered live in 3D for viewing in InfiniAM Spectral. The engineer can compare the data from each sensor to identify any deviations, which may indicate the presence of anomalies that could lead to defects. When producing the first part in a series, data from LaserVIEW and MeltVIEW can be compared with existing X-Ray or computed tomography (CT) data from a known good part. The manufacturer can use this gold-standard signal data and can compare it against data from subsequent parts to judge quality and consistency. As a result, Renishaw says that the InfiniAM Spectral software will be a hefty asset to those producing a series of identical parts in high-value applications.

For more information, see http://www.renishaw.com/en/software-for-laser-powder-bed-fusion-metal-3d-printing-systems--15255

Source: Renishaw