Resilient and sustainable advanced manufacturing via Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion

Purpose and goal

In this project, Linköpings Universitet, together with Saab Dynamics AB and Freemelt AB, will collaborate to develop and verify additive manufacturing via electron beam powder bed fusion (EB-PBF) of oxygen-free copper with extremely high purity and controlled microstructure The concept will be verified via a demonstrator for Saab Dynamics applications.

Expected effects and result

Advanced manufacturing usually requires very long value chains with many involved actors from raw materials to final product, which creates a great vulnerability in crisis situations. Additive manufacturing creates the conditions to drastically shorten these value chains. The solution in this project is based on resources, technology and competence found in Sweden. This creates resilience and conditions for local manufacturing of both civilian and military advanced products.

Planned approach and implementation

In the project, Saab Dynamics will set requirements for the final product and be responsible for design and performance. Freemelt AB is an SME and a deep-tech company whose pioneering solutions create new conditions for rapid growth within 3D printing of metals. In the project, they will contribute with expertise within EB-PBF and process development. As an academic partner, Linköpings Universitet will mainly contribute with expertise in material development and simulation methodology.