ISSN:
1355-2546
Source:
Emerald Fulltext Archive Database 1994-2005
Topics:
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
Notes:
Purpose - Examples are given for the technical applicability of a novel development of selective laser sintering called "laser micro sintering". Design/methodology/approach - Together with a specific method to produce powder layers, the controlled application of pulsed radiation for the processing of sub-µm grained metal powders was exploited to produce micro-tools with a heretofore unattained structural resolution. Findings - High resolution micro bodies are displayed. Instruments could be generated which proved to fulfil their designation as grip bits for micro manipulators. The micro-bodies can be generated detachably from or firmly fixed to the construction substrate. The material of the generated bodies withstands the traction forces when used as an injection mold for polymer casts. Research limitations/implications - Densities and structural resolutions can still be improved especially with a newly updated version of the equipment. Laser micro sintering of materials, other than metal (e.g. ceramics), has still to be developed. The introduction of the equipment and the technique into the market is on its way. Practical implications - Micro-tools can be generated with an overall structural resolution of 30?µm and with all the advantages of a freedom technique. Originality/value - The paper informs the technical community on a new novel modification of the freeform technique selective laser sintering, demonstrating the solution of some problems that have hampered the progress of metal laser into resolution ranges below 100?µm. It also supplies evidence for the technical applicability.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/13552540510573356
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