Fabrication of hydrodynamic torque converter impellers by using the selective laser sintering method

Abstract

Purpose – The main aim of the paper is the application of the selective laser sintering (SLS) method for fabrication of hydrodynamic torque converter (HTC) impellers. Design/methodology/approach – Establishing of assumptions for the impeller design process based on the HTC characteristics analysis, creation of the virtual solid model of HTC impellers, fabrication of HTC impellers by using the SLS method, investigation of the performance of HTC with fabricated impellers by using a test rig. Findings – The test results show that the SLS method can be successfully used for the fabrication of HTC impellers with 3D and flat blades. Research limitations/implications – The method application is limited to small diameters of HTC impellers depending on working area dimensions of SLS machine. Practical implications – The method can decrease the time and cost of fabrication of HTC impellers by using the SLS method. Originality/value – The application of the SLS method for fabrication of HTC impellers with 3D and flat blades.