Incremental solidification (toward 3D-printing) of magnetically-confined metal-powder by localized microwave heating

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to present an experimental and theoretical study oriented to investigate the potential use of localized microwave-heating (LMH) in 3D-printing and additive-manufacturing (AM) processes.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a previous study by the authors, a magnetic confinement technique is developed here as a non-contact support for the incremental solidification by LMH of small metal-powder batches. This approach, which saves the need for a mechanic support in contact with the powder-batch during the microwave heating, may significantly simplify the LMH–AM process.FindingsThe powder properties are characterized, and a theoretical LMH model is used to simulate the LMH mechanism dominated here by magnetic eddy currents.Originality/valueThe experimental products are analyzed, and their hardness, porosity and oxidation are evaluated. Practical considerations and further improvements of the non-contact LMH–AM process are discussed.