Simulation of additive manufacturing processes for the production of metal components
The Challenge
Additive Manufacturing (AM, also called 3D printing) technologies are generating huge interest in all industry sectors, as they enable the rapid design and manufacture of prototypes and products. However, there are challenges associated with using these technologies, such as component failure due to issues with layer deposition. There are multiple points during the fabrication process when the component being manufactured may fail due to this. Post-production failures of apparently complete parts can also occur.
The Solution
This experiment provided a numerical analysis environment which enables users to forecast the results of the AM process using cloud-based HPC simulation.
The forecasting tool is able to predict the stress state of the final component, as well as how the product deforms due to differential cooling during the manufacturing process. The multi-scale and multi-physics nature of the problem has been captured in the tool, allowing engineers to better understand this complex manufacturing process. This approach has created a robust solution by identifying which parameters most impact the quality of the final result before production begins, and which, therefore, need to be tightly controlled.
Business Impact
The impact this experiment for HPE has been to increase the effectiveness of its optimized AM solutions. The major benefits are a reduced time-to-market and a reduced number of defective parts, thanks to a closer match between the initial design and the manufactured part. This has consequently lowered costs.
As regards the reduction in time required for tuning the AM process, there were two main outcomes. Thanks to this experiment, build failures and multiple design loops can now be avoided. The same benefits for HPE could be applied to any SME that purchases the service via the Fortissimo Marketplace. The results of the experiment are expected to increase HPE’s market share by 50% and reduce costs (thanks to the lower levels of material wastage) by €90,000 per year.
EXEMPLAR is able to offer the technology developed here as a commercial service under an SaaS model, with a potential annual turnover of €125,000.
Benefits
- HPE can reduce time-to-market of their products
- The number of defective parts can be reduced
- Consequent reduction in costs of up to €90,000 per year
- EXEMPLAR expects an annual turnover of €125,000 from SaaS offer
Organizations Involved
End User: HPE (High Performance Engineering)
Application Expert: EXEMPLAR srl & University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (UNIMORE)
HPC Expert & Centre: CINECA