Fri, 30 September, 2022
We are launching a new Joint Industry Project (JIP) on nozzle calibration and quality assurance of powder fed laser deposition systems.
The powder-gas jet stream affects the deposition characteristics, influencing factors such as the deposit quality, powder capture efficiency, and process stability, among others. The powder-gas jet stream is generated by the nozzle, the end effector of a laser deposition system.
The powder-gas jet stream is affected by different factors including wear (deposition time, powder abrasiveness), nozzle impact, humidity, powder characteristics, misalignment, and especially by process parameters, notably carrier and shielding gas flow rates. These process parameters can be argued as having the greatest influence on the quality of the process, yet the measurement of the powder-gas jet stream is one of the most neglected topics for industrial users and researchers alike. This is because it is difficult to measure and assure.
New technologies and measurement tools have been developed in recent years which propose to make possible the qualification and measurement of powder-gas jet stream properties. The few systems available in the market work with different measurement principles, setups and outputs.
To address this, TWI is launching this JIP to help deepen industry knowledge on the importance of this topic, offer a guide on the solutions and technology available, and identify best practice and the routes to effectively implement leading solutions into service.
We will investigate the state-of-the-art powder-gas jet stream measurement systems available in the market (those with high TRL) and generate guidance for industry on this crucial theme. We will focus on individual necessities of the JIP sponsors, assessing specific needs and setups, and making the deliverables of the project a useful and rich source of data for industry sponsors.
The JIP concept greatly aids accessibility for Members by leveraging the project costs while generating a substantial output on a topic of shared interest for industry.
We are holding a project launch meeting on 2 November 2022 (at TWI Yorkshire with hybrid virtual access), offering you the opportunity to help guide the direction of the project and gain state-of-the-art knowledge, while networking with other interested business organisations.
The project is designed to be accessible for all interested TWI Industrial Members, whether small or large, from equipment providers to industrial users.
You can see more details about this thematic and JIP in the webinar recording, below.
If you would like to register to attend the launch event, please email jip@twi.co.uk