SLS Surface Roughness Optimization Research

This research addresses challenges associated with the surface quality and wear resistance of parts produced using the SLS manufacturing process. The roughness is attributed to factors such as the use of recycled material in the powder, incomplete melting of sections, and impressions left by un-melted powder on the layers. The research aims to investigate the impact of varying the build angle on surface roughness, and the "true" to "projected" area ratios of these builds were studied.

Data Collection

For this research, I helped collect data of various SLS printed samples in 11 x 11 grid using the Alicona 3D optical measurement system.

Using the Alicona, I could then observe the surface quality measured in each sample, which is the ratio of “true” to “projected” area or area ratio.

Data Analysis

I then analyzed the data by plotting area ratio against the different build angles.