<p>THE CHALLENGE</p><p>Design SMEs GRM and K-Tech were keen to further investigate the capability of Additive Manufacturing (AM).</p><p>In order to fully utilise the benefits of AM for product improvement, GRM and K-Tech were looking to develop knowledge and expertise in considerations for Design for AM.</p><p>K-Tech had previously designed and manufactured a motorbike fork end, and were looking to improve this product.</p><p>MTC'S SOLUTION</p><p>Working with GRM using TruForm topology optimisation, the MTC facilitated fast iteration of designs to optimise the motorbike fork.</p><p>Two motorbike forks were manufactured in a titanium alloy using Electron Beam Melting (EBM).</p><p>The MTC performed non destructive evaluation (NDE) via structured light scanning. This was carried out using GOM for geometric conformance and X-ray computed tomography for defect detection.</p><p>THE OUTCOME</p><p>Electron beam additive manufactured components with assurance of quality via NDE.</p><p>Optimisation of component design, achieving a 50g weight saving per component. The switch to titanium improved fracture toughness.</p><p>BENEFITS TO THE CLIENT</p><p>Fast iteration and design change implementation throughout project.</p><p>Product and process knowledge captured for use in future GRM and K-Tech programmes.</p><p>Transferable capability and knowledge obtained as a result.</p>
Authored by Tian-Long at June 28, 2022, 10:24 a.m.