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 Design Optimization of Metal Components for Reduced Weight Increased Strength; New Opportunities for Investment Casting
  
Author:Tom Mueller, Kevin Smith, Voxeljet, Adam Robertson, Selex, ES Group UK
Abstract:In the last couple decades, two tools have enabled the development of metal components with significantly improved performance. Design optimization tools use finite element methods to incrementally tweak designs through thousands of iterations to maximize component strength, minimize weight, or both while maintaining connection locations, etc. However, because of undercuts, etc., the optimized design often cannot be manufactured using conventional methods.

The development of 3D printed investment casting patterns, which have few if any geometry limitations, allows such designs to be manufactured. The value of the improved component characteristics often far outweighs the increased cost of the manufacturing. The combination of optimization techniques and printed investment casting patterns creates new opportunities for investment casting were previously not possible.

This paper presents case studies of the development of optimized components and their manufacture in automotive and aerospace applications. In addition, suggestions for pursuing such opportunities are presented.
Keywords:Miscellaneous
Paper Pages:5
Paper Year:2015
Paper Index:9:234
Paper Source:82

Price:$25.00 

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