Novel Beam Diagnostics Improve Laser Additive Manufacturing

Laser additive manufacturing (LAM) is rapidly becoming an important method for the fabrication of both prototype and production metal parts. However, the technology is really just in its infancy, and significant work still needs to be done in the development of new materials and in understanding how various process parameters affect results. In particular, LAM methods typically have a relatively small process window for laser performance, where minor changes in beam and scanning parameters can significantly affect results quality. This document examines the need for laser beam characterization to deliver optimum results, and then shows how a new beam monitoring technology, developed by Haas Laser Technologies and Coherent (in cooperation with Pennsylvania State University’s Center for Innovative Materials Processing through Direct Digital Deposition), enables rapid measurements in laser-based 3D manufacturing systems. Ultimately, this technology will allow beam issues to be identified and corrected before they seriously impact the quality of parts produced using LAM.