Understanding Defects and Post-Processing in Metal Additive Manufacturing — Lesson 4

This lesson covers the common defects that occur in metal additive manufacturing due to improper selection of process parameters. It delves into the significance of post-processing steps, particularly in metal additive manufacturing, and how they can influence the performance of the manufactured part. The lesson also discusses the role of thermal sources in metal additive manufacturing and the impact of their selection on the final product. It further explores various defects such as elongated and non-spherical pores, gas pores, unfused powder, balling effect, cracking, warping, delamination, and swelling. The lesson concludes with an in-depth look at post-processing techniques like heat treatment, surface finishing, bead blasting, anodizing, electroplating, and laser polishing.

Video Highlights

00:15 - Introduction to the lecture on Metal Additive Manufacturing and the focus on various defects due to improper process parameters
02:19 - Discussion on the importance of choosing the right thermal source in metal additive manufacturing
05:28 - Detailed discussion on the causes and effects of elongation and non-spherical pores, gas pores, and unfused powders
14:19 - Introduction to the topic of post-processing in metal additive manufacturing and its importance
17:03 - Discussion on the process of bead blasting, anodizing, and laser polishing as post-processing steps

Key Takeaways

- Porosity is a common defect in metal additive manufacturing, along with other defects like elongated and non-spherical pores, gas pores, unfused powder, balling effect, cracking, warping, delamination, and swelling.
- Post-processing steps play a crucial role in metal additive manufacturing, influencing the grain and surface morphology of the final product.
- The selection of thermal sources in metal additive manufacturing significantly impacts the performance of the manufactured part.
- Post-processing techniques such as heat treatment, surface finishing, bead blasting, anodizing, electroplating, and laser polishing can help mitigate some of the defects and improve the quality of the final product.