Feasibility of selective laser melting process in manufacturing of digital spare parts

Digital spare parts is a concept where spare parts and all the related information are transferred and stored digitally. A physical copy of the spare part will be 3D printed only when they are needed and usually in a location close to end user. Feasibility of selective laser melting (SLM) process in manufacturing of industrial spare parts was demonstrated. Spare parts selected for the demonstrations were originated from industry and they were designed to be manufactured using traditional manufacturing methods such as casting and machining. Materials for the SLM process (e.g. H13 tool steel and Inconel 718) were selected so that they correspond with the original materials to meet the critical design aspects. Process parameters were determined experimentally using Design of Experiment approach where the effect of process parameters on part porosity was evaluated. The parts were manufactured and finalized by heat treating and machining. In addition, material properties (microstructure, mechanical properties) were determined and the overall performance and profitability (e.g. manufacturing / life cycle costs, delivery time) of the parts were assessed. Achieved results showed SLM process to be a relevant option in manufacturing of spare parts.