Research Projects

No process or technology is omnipotent; each has certain advantages and limitations. Therefore, integrating hybrid processes and multiple technologies synergically gives the best results. Multi-Station Multi-Axis Hybrid Layered Manufacturing (MSMA-HLM) is one such. MSMA-HLM is hybrid in more than one sense: Arc and LASER cladding; 3-axis and 5-axis kinematics; planar, adaptive and conformal slicing strategies. It uses preheating and pneumatic hammering technologies for stress relieving and an automatic inspection using image processing based. Any weldable metal can be used. HLM can use multiple materials to build composite objects and features like conformal cooling channels (CCC). HLM has been proved for very complex geometries such as: impeller, turbine blade and composite injection mold with CCC. It is applicable for fresh manufacturing as well as repair. MSMA-HLM uses a unique parallel kinematics for Y and Z axes in scissor configuration. If this succeeds, the machine tool industry may adopt it.