Title: Dimensional deviations of machine parts produced in laser sintering technology

Authors: J. Kotlinski, Z. Kesy, A. Kesy, M. Jackson, R. Parkin

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Radom, Krasickiego 54, 26-600 Radom, Poland. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Radom, Krasickiego 54, 26-600 Radom, Poland. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Radom, Krasickiego 54, 26-600 Radom, Poland. ' Wolfson School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University, LE11 3TU, UK. ' Wolfson School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University, LE11 3TU, UK

Abstract: This study concerns assessment of dimensional deviations of machine parts produced in laser sintering technology. For the assessment of dimensional deviations a gauge containing basic shapes characteristic of machine parts was designed and produced. The gauge measurements were carried out. Linear dimensions, plane angles of inclinations and diameters were measured. The results from the measures showed that some dimensional deviations considerably exceed permissible deviations given in technical documentation of the laser sintering technology. The research is limited to specific equipment and material. This data is very useful in designing process of functional prototypes. The laser sintering technology could be used for fabrication of functional prototypes. In this case, dimensional deviations of parts are important. This research was conducted to provide much needed accuracy information.

Keywords: rapid prototyping; laser sintering; dimensional deviations; hydrodynamic torque converter; gauge measurements; functional prototypes.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRAPIDM.2009.028933

International Journal of Rapid Manufacturing, 2009 Vol.1 No.1, pp.88 - 98

Published online: 14 Oct 2009 *

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