Automated inline inspection and quality control of net-shape power metallurgy components using microfocus three-dimensional x-ray computed tomography imaging (additive manufacturing)
Acronym: QualiNET
Funding body: Innovate UK
Status: Completed
The powder metallurgy (PM) process, by its nature, is suited to high-volume production and is increasingly employing finer powders for refined microstructures (nanometre-to-very-few-micrometre scale). Therefore any flaws/defects in the parts can have a significant impact on the production output, such as loss of material and effi ciency, as well as potential failures in later use.
A system (QualiNET) will be developed for automated quality control of PM components and components produced by other advanced net-shape techniques where similar defects occur. These include powder injection moulding (PIM) and additive manufacturing by laser sintering (also known as laser cladding and by various other names).