Additive Manufacturing

High-speed infrared imaging provides new insights for research on additive manufacturing. Fundamental research on heat transfers and monitoring of the printing process can benefit from high spatial, thermal and temporal resolutions. Here, Argonne National Laboratory uses infrared imaging (left), as well as X-ray diagnostics (right) to prevent defects during additive manufacturing processes. X-rays offer insight into the microstructures of the meltpool, while infrared imaging – provided by a Telops M3k at 100 000 frames per second – allows to visualize the formation of plumes of vaporised powder that form when the laser hits the material. These high-temperature plumes inhibits the efficiency of the laser. To learn more, read this blog post. Animated images courtesy of Argonne National Lab.