DOT 2011: Development and Implementation of Metals Additive Manufacturing
The following is an abstract of a presentation that will be featured at the Deep Offshore Technology International Conference & Exhibition in New Orleans, Oct. 11-13:
Dr. Ian Harris, EWI
Additive manufacturing (AM) is defined as the building of parts in layers directly from CAD data. Addititive manufacturing of metals is a rapidly growing field of research and includes development across many materials of commercial interest, from steels to stainless steels, nickel alloys, and titanium alloys. Several processes have, and are being developed, but many are not yet qualified for production parts, especially in markets where extensive, detailed material, and process qualification is needed.
The drivers of the AM processes are many and include foreshortening of the innovation timeline from design to part, elimination of expensive tooling associated with traditional manufacturing methods, increased design freedom, and lower cost. Potentially large cost savings and sustainability improvements are possible, but not yet proven in many cases.
The disruptive nature of AM presents a whole new vista of opportunities, both economic and social. Realizing these benefits will take a lot of work, so collaboration in many of the key precompetitive building blocks makes sense to many.
An Additive Manufacturing Consortium (AMC) has been formed by 20 industrial members and partners to address these needs. The processes, materials, and some case studies will be highlighted to show the possibilites for use of AM in the oil and gas indutry.
This presentation will be featured at the Deep Offshore Technology (DOT) Conference & Exhibition in New Orleans. It is scheduled for 9 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 13, in Suite B, Room 12 of the Hilton Riverside.
