30-04-2011, 10:05 AM
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StereoLithography (SL)
u Process Characteristics
+ 3D Systems - inventor
+ UV laser solidifies liquid photopolymer in layers using a scanning system
+ Liquid is replenished and leveled between layers
+ Parts require support structures
+ Completed parts require cleaning and UV or Thermal post curing
Selective Selective Layer Sintering (SLS)
u Process Characteristics
+ C02 laser fuses thermoplastics powders in layers using a computer controller scanning system
+ Powder is replenished and the next layer is scanned
+ Powder temperature is maintained near melting point to aid fusion and minimize distortions
+ Supports may be used
u Energy Source: 100 Watt CO2 Lasers
u Materials: DuraForm (nylon), DuraForm GF (glass-filled nylon), DuraForm EX (elastomer); Ti, SS, CoCr…
u DTM, Austin, TX, now 3D systems
u accuracy 160 mm
u no supports
u polycarbonate, nylon, wax, glass-filled nylon, powder coated metals or ceramics
u can be end-use parts
3D Printing
• ZCorpSanders Prototype Inc., NH
• ink jet technology
• dual heads deposit part material (thermoplastic) and support material (wax)
• build layers as thin as .0005”very fast and cheap process
• Print head deposits binder into vat of powder.
• Powder recoating is similar to SLS.
• As easy to use as a network printer.
• Fast and inexpensive.
• Fragile and limited accuracy
– good infiltrants available