A defects detection method based on infrared scanning in laser metal deposition process

Abstract

PurposeLaser metal deposition (LMD) is an important additive manufacturing (AM) technology, but the metallurgical defects, such as cracks and porosities, produced in LMD process will seriously affect the mechanical properties of the parts. The purpose of this paper is to propose a novel in-process defects detection method based on infrared scanning for LMD.Design/methodology/approachThe defects detection principle is that, after every three to five layers have been deposited, the optical head of a high-precision infrared two-color pyrometer is driven to scan the defects by measuring the abnormal temperature peaks on the deposited surface. The experiments for verifying the defects detection principle were carried out.FindingsThe relationship between the temperature peak value and the dimensions of the defect was analyzed based on the heat conduction theory and curves of temperature peak value versus crack width or diameter of porosity.Originality/valueThis method can effectively improve the detection accuracy and the defects can be precisely located, which can meet the requirement of laser targeting re-melting and elimination of the defects.