Sigma Labs Inc (SASI)

[jjsmith77]

I'd like to clarify the results of the American Makes project.

The project showed that PR3D functioned in its design, which is to monitor the process. The report clearly states:

This showed that the IPQA metrics were a function of the material and the machine used as well as laser power and scan speed, but were not dependent on hatch spacing.

In other words, IPQA correlated to material and machine with changes in machine parameters/variables.

The objectives of the project were:
* Install, verify, and validate process monitoring equipment
* Establish baseline critical-to-quality (CTQ) metrics and standard test plan
* Generate data for IPQA reference database
* Develop DMLM IPQA prototype tool

PR3D data needs to be correlated to destructive test results to determine printer parameters. A part undergoes numerous iterations and tested in fatigue, tensile strength, etc. As each iteration is examined by destructive tests, more data is gained about failures which gives direction in how to adjust printer parameters. An acceptable part is one that passes physical testing and the parameter that produced this part is the "fingerprint". Notice "Process Validated" is up to 30 runs:


PR3D is not designed to predict porosity. If it could, then iteration of parts are not needed.

Peralta, et al. research and discussion in in-situ monitoring with Sigma Labs and Stratonics
They can be used to predict the process parameters that will yield good material consolidation with low porosity and to the top layer surface roughness from the predicted melt pool profiles.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40192-016-0052-5

PR3D was a success story. The America Makes process was another milestone.