The Combination Application of Laser Rapid Forming and Precision Casting Technology
Introduction
Laser rapid forming technology (LFT) is the process used to rapidly manufacture complex three-dimensional components from powdered metal feedstock. This technology is an advanced manufacturing process which is used in the production of parts such as aircraft turbine blades and automobile engine components. It can save up to 40-70% of the machining time and reduce the machining cost by 10-15%. Precision casting technology (PCT), on the other hand, is a process used to create precision components from molten metal. PCT is used in the production of precision parts for a variety of industries such as aerospace, medical, and automotive.
This paper presents a combination application of LFT and PCT. The combination application enables the rapid manufacture of complex shaped components with minimum machining requirements. Specifically, this combination application is used in the manufacture of aerospace engine components.
The Combination Application of LFT and PCT
The combination application of LFT and PCT involves the use of a combination of laser welding and laser ablation to fabricate components from metal feedstock. The components are then placed in a die of the desired size and shape, and molten metal is forced by centrifugal force into the die. This results in a highly accurate replica of the component.
Laser welding is a process whereby laser radiation is used to generate intense heat in the area between two metal parts. This heat causes fusion of the two parts, which then form a single part. Laser ablation, on the other hand, is a process whereby material is removed from the surface of the component using laser radiation. This process creates an accurately contoured surface which is used as the initial design for the component.
Advantages
The combination application of LFT and PCT has several advantages over traditional methods. First, it eliminates the need for machining operations. This reduces the cost and time required in the manufacturing process. Secondly, the components produced by this method are highly accurate as the surface of the component is accurately contoured. This accuracy is also maintained when the component is placed in the die. Thirdly, the time required for production is greatly reduced as components can be produced much faster than with traditional methods. Finally, the combination application of LFT and PCT eliminates the need for multiple tools and settings.
Conclusion
The combination application of LFT and PCT is an effective means of rapidly manufacturing complex components with minimum machining requirements. This process eliminates the need for multiple tools and settings and reduces the time required for production. In addition, the components produced by this method are highly accurate and have a smooth contoured surface. This combination application can be used in a variety of manufacturing processes, including the production of aerospace engine components.
