A novel method for metal additive manufacturing

Current metal additive manufacturing processes either use a high-power heat energy source to melt and fuse material or they use post-processing steps like sintering or machining to give the material its net shape and/or structural integrity. We are developing a fundamentally new method of additive manufacturing that does not use a high-power heat energy source or any post-processing operation.

I have had the opportunity to be involved in this project since its inception. The project has demanded multi-disciplinary approach that includes:

• Material science and microscopy oriented research to understand the process physics.

• Mechanical engineering and design to develop prototype systems.

• Electronic hardware and software development.

• Process engineering that ensures reliably functioning systems and enables continuous improvement of existing processes and systems.