Other

National University of Singapore

Ying Hsi Jerry Fuh

Yin Chiang Boey

Li Lu

Yoke San Wong

Ching Chiuan Yen

Xuan Wang

XinHua Wang

JiHuan Luo

YueFeng Yu

XiangLin Zhang

HongBin Cheng

Kuak Choi Lealic Lim

YaXin Tang

YunGan Wang

Wai Tung Chow

Swab

A computer-controlled apparatus and method for producing metallic parts by laser melting selected regions of a layer(s) of metal powder at a target area are disclosed. The system includes devices for preheating and maintaining a relatively high temperature, e.g. 400&deg; C., of the metal powder so as to join the metal powder together with relatively low laser power, e.g. a 200W CO laser. A major powder depositing mechanism with a scraper and a depositing system for a secondary powder are included in the apparatus that allows the powders to be delivered to the target area for selective melting. The metal powder is preheated at either a dispensing cylinder or the target area through thermal conduction and/or is also heated by a heating plate positioned above the platform through radiation. The corresponding machine structures, such as a motion system and a working chamber, are designed to be able to withstand and operated under the high temperature environment.

Method and apparatus for creating a free-form three-dimensional metal part using high-temperature direct laser melting

Growing community of inventors

Singapore, Singapore

Ying Hsi Jerry Fuh