SGER: Radiation Sintering - A New Method for Layered Fabrication of Free Form 3-Dimensional Objects

University Of Southern California, Los Angeles CA

Investigators

Abstract

This high risk, high potential research is focused on the design and execution of experiments to study a new process in layered manufacturing. The process is based upon bulk sintering of powder layers using radiation, as an alternative to selective laser sintering (SLS). The process is anticipated to present better dimensional control, reduced machine cost, and reduced fabrication time in the production of 3-D structural components. This is a major deviation from the traditional research on powder sintering and poses the risks associated with new and untested phenomena, as it requires sintering inhibition in selected areas.