In-process control of additive manufacturing using laser and filler wire
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | GKN Aerospace Sweden AB - Avd 9634JA |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 4 060 000 |
| Project duration | November 2019 - December 2023 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | National Aeronautical Research Program 7 |
| Call | Research project in aviation technology - spring 2019 |
Important results from the project
InAirWire aimed to advance AM for aerospace components using DED-LB/w, focusing on reliability and eco-friendliness. It explored new sensor applications and control algorithms for guaranteed material properties, collaborating closely with GKN and HV. Outcomes include reaching TRL 5 for sensor-based control, with plans for industrialization by 2025, and academic achievements for the PhD student (licentiate degree). The most significant contributors to the control and monitoring of the AM builds using L-DED-W/LB was found to be electrical signals and the photo array sensors.
Expected long term effects
The INAIRWire results has laid the ground work for understanding the mechanisms that affect the quality of the deposition which has given the direction for the industry. GKN has absorbed all the developments and intends to industrialize the control system and the monitoring system in 2025. PTC has evolved into an environment for undertaking more intense development work in DED with the aid of knowledge and resources from the project benefitting SME´s and introduction of new employees to GKN.
Approach and implementation
The project was extensively experimental and carried out with a major contribution of the PhD student at the university’s equipment at PTC in close collaboration with GKN personnel and HV supervisors and engineers. The collaboration has been successful in defining industrially relevant constraints to scientifical findings and in transferring the results to GKN own development work in a very efficient way.