Abstract
In many cases, the functional performance of additively manufactured components can only be ensured by finishing the functional surfaces. Various methods are available for this purpose. This paper presents a procedure for selecting suitable processes for finishing laser beam melting additive–manufactured parts which is ultimately based on technological knowledge. It was experimentally proven that the use of several consecutive finishing processes is beneficial to achieve better surface quality. One finishing process chain was particularly effective (namely particle blasting/vibratory grinding/plasma electrolytic polishing) and the technological limits of this method were investigated in this study. The optimal parameters for this process combination ensured a surface roughness Sa < 1 µm.
Highlights
Technological knowledge regarding the development of roughness of these surfaces base for planning the laser beam melting (LBM) process, the results of which playwithin a the building process in relation to part orientation and positioning enables a sound base decisive role in the finishing process
On the basis of the aforementioned knowledge regarding the effect of single finishing processes on roughness reduction, this study investigated the effect of combining plasma electrolytic polishing (PeP) with other finishing processes
It was first possible to identify the technological limits of individual finishing processes with regard to roughness reduction on test specimens manufactured using LBM
Summary
Additively manufactured parts are usually blasted with particles of hard materials in order to clean the surfaces of the material residue on the one hand and to smooth the peaks of roughness on the other [18,19] Since this process is not very controlled, the final quality of the component requires further finishing steps [20,21]. The machining of additively manufactured components with complex geometry places especially high demands on the process, whereby the accessibility of the grinding particles to all areas should be ensured for homogeneous surface roughness [23,24] This process can be used effectively in series production.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callDisclaimer: 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.
