Controlled densification of fusible powders in laser sintering

Details Controlled densification of fusible powders in laser sintering Controlled densification of fusible powders in laser sintering

2004-12-07

2009-08-04

Tentoni, Leo B (Department: 1791)

Plastic and nonmetallic article shaping or treating: processes

Direct application of electrical or wave energy to work

Using laser sintering of particulate material to build...

Reexamination Certificate

active

07569174

ABSTRACT:
The invention relates to a method producing parts using laser sintering wherein a fusible powder is exposed to a plurality of laser scans at controlled energy levels and for time periods to melt and densify the powder and in the substantial absence of particle bonding outside the fusion boundary. Strength is improved up to 100% compared to previous methods. An example includes a relatively high energy initial scan to melt the powder followed by lower energy scans controlled to densify the melt and separated in time to dissipate heat to the surrounding part cake. The rate and extent to which the powder particles are fused together can be controlled so that each successive scan can be used to fuse the particles together in discreet incremental steps. As a result, the final dimensions of the part and its density and mechanical properties can be improved compared to conventional methods and part growth avoided.

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French Examination Application No. FR 05 12351 dated Oct. 26, 2007-5 pages; no English translation for pp. 3-5.
Tontowi, Alva et al., Density Prediction of Crystalline Polymer Sintered Parts at Various Powder Bed Temparatures, Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 7-No. 3-2001 pp. 180-184.
Tontowi, Alva E. and Childs, T.H.C. “Density Prediction of Crystalline Polymer Sintered Parts at Various Powder Bed Temperatures,”Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 7, No. 3, 2001 pp. 180-184.

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