Laser Direct Metal Deposition (DMD) is a revolutionary approach to manufacturing or repairing a range of metal components. In its simplest form, the process works in much the same way as stereo lithography: a layer-by-layer approach to building up a three dimensional solid object. In the case of DMD this occurs by building up layers of metal by completely melting and re-solidifying metal powder using a laser. The result of the process is a fully dense structure close to the required net shape. The static and dynamic properties of the structure can be equivalent or superior to wrought material, as in the case of titanium and stainless steel alloys. Among its other applications, laser DMD has long been proposed as a means for fabricating spares on an as-needed basis. As-needed spares fabrication is conceptually attractive for use during space missions to create metal parts to fit a situational need, either for spares or for fabricating new items to meet an unforeseen need. The laser DMD process as currently used on Earth can’t be used directly in a space environment without modifications. This paper discusses the issues we can currently foresee with using laser DMD in space.


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    Title :

    On-demand spares fabrication during space missions using Laser Direct Metal Deposition


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Space Technology and Applications International Forum - 2001 ; 2001 ; Albuquerque, New Mexico


    Published in:

    AIP Conference Proceedings ; 552 , 1 ; 170-175


    Publication date :

    2001-02-02


    Size :

    6 pages





    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



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