Abstract
This chapter studies the potential of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies for injection molds with conformal cooling systems. The analysis is based on a case study intending to compare the performance of conventional machining with two AM technological alternatives: Vacuum Furnace Brazing of metal plates and Direct Metal Laser Sintering. Assuming that the effects of the benefits and drawbacks of the options have different dimensions and time horizons, the comparison is made based on the life cycle perspective of the mold. A Life Cycle Engineering approach is followed, which allows the integrated evaluation of the economic, environmental, and technical performance throughout the mold life. A sensitivity analysis is performed to understand the robustness and is most suitable alternative for different production contexts, taking advantage of the process modeling based on engineering relations. The results show the benefits of AM-based conformal cooling solutions on the mold technical performance, measured by the part quality, together with the economic and environmental advantages for medium to high production volumes.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Advanced Applications in Manufacturing Engineering
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
