Feature-based characterisation of signature topography in laser powder bed fusion of metals

Senin, Nicola; Thompson, Adam; Leach, Richard K.

Abstract

The use of state-of-the-art areal topography measurement instrumentation allows for a high level of detail in the acquisition of topographic information at micrometric scales. The three-dimensional geometric models of surface topography obtained from measured data create new opportunities for the investigation of manufacturing processes through characterisation of the surfaces of manufactured parts. Conventional methods for quantitative assessment of topography usually only involve the computation of texture parameters; summary indicators of topography-related characteristics that are computed over the investigated area. However, further useful information may be obtained through characterisation of signature topographic formations, as more direct indicators of manufacturing process behaviour and performance. In this work, laser powder bed fusion of metals is considered. An original algorithmic method is proposed to isolate relevant topographic formations and to quantify their dimensional and geometric properties, using areal topography data acquired by state-of-the-art areal topography measurement instrumentation.

Citation

Senin, N., Thompson, A., & Leach, R. K. (2018). Feature-based characterisation of signature topography in laser powder bed fusion of metals. Measurement Science and Technology, 29(4), Article 045009. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6501/aa9e19

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Nov 29, 2017
• Online Publication Date: Nov 29, 2017
• Publication Date: Mar 8, 2018
• Deposit Date: Dec 8, 2017
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 30, 2018
• Journal: Measurement Science and Technology
• Print ISSN: 0957-0233
• Electronic ISSN: 1361-6501
• Publisher: IOP Publishing
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 29
• Issue: 4
• Article Number: 045009
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6501/aa9e19
• Keywords: surface metrology, additive manufacturing, 3D topographic features, laser powder bed fusion
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/919188
• Publisher URL: http://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1361-6501/aa9e19/meta