PostProcess Technologies, which specialises in the finishing of 3D printed parts, says that it has delivered improved surface finish standards and replicable results to a complex metal parts with its automated Hybrid DECI Duo machine.
In a case study, PostProcess worked on additive manufactured (AM) titanium and nickel alloy shrouded impellers for industrial manufacturer Ingersoll Rand. After parts arrived off the printer with an R a (roughness average) value that did not meet their specifications, Ingersoll utilized traditional 3D post-printing methods did not meet the tight tolerance requirements for aerodynamic testing and the surface finish needs for aerodynamic performance.
After using the Hybrid DECI Duo, Ingersoll has reportedly obtained consistent, repeatable Ra results for the 3D printed shrouded impellers proven using benchmark testing with an average of 70-80% reduction in R a for parts run for 20 minutes or less.
The full case study can be found here (pdf).
This story is reprinted from material from PostProcess, with editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.
