Project 1 - Feedstock Characterization for LMDp Process – Repair (FEEDER)
Dalarna University is the main partner in this project, Feedstock Characterization for LMDp Process – Repair (FEEDER). The project duration is 1 year, starting from September 2023, and Dalarna University has received 1,500,000 SEK from Vinnova to carry out this research.
The FEEDER project aims to provide a comprehensive feedstock characterization of Ti6Al4V powders for the Laser Metal Deposition-Powder (LMDp), additive manufacturing process. Currently, aero-engine metallic components are manufactured by casting and forging processes, but the LMDp technique has gained much attention in repairing aero-engine components due to its flexibility and reliability in controlling various process parameters. The successful implementation of the LMDp process for Ti6Al4V repairs relies heavily on the characterization of the feedstock powders. By understanding the influence of feedstock characteristics such as powder particle size, flowability, chemical composition, and surface morphology on the processability and resulting properties of Ti6Al4V additive manufactured parts and repairs. This study will contribute to the optimization of the LMDp process parameters, especially in repairs in the aviation industry and the production of high-quality titanium components. In addition, this project will also lead to developing knowledge on setting the Ti6Al4V feedstock specifications and procurement for the LMDp process.
Project 2 - Small scale testing & cracking behaviour of Ti LDMp repairs (SMART)
Jönköping University is the main partner in the second project, Small scale testing & cracking behaviour of Ti LDMp repairs (SMART). The project duration is also 1 year, starting from September 2023, and Dalarna University has received 250,000 SEK from Vinnova to conduct experimental characterization and method development.
The SMART project aims at utilizing and developing small-scale testing of Ti6Al4V repair components produced by Laser Metal Deposition-Powder (LMDp), an additive manufacturing process for aerospace applications. Currently, aero-engine metallic components are manufactured by casting and forging processes, but the LMDp technique has gained much attention in repairing aero-engine components due to its flexibility and reliability in controlling various process parameters. The results from the SMART project will yield knowledge about the effect of microstructure variation on the mechanical performance of the material in different sections of the base and repaired Ti6Al4V components.
