A Systematic Approach to Laser Sintering
As an early adopter of laser sintering technology, NyproMold uses a very focused, two-step strategy for evaluating when it makes sense to use it.
These mold cores were created for a 48-cavity packaging application at NyproMold Inc. using a hybrid process that combines traditional CNC machining and 3D printing of conformal cooling channels that cannot be machined. Using conformal cooling in this mold resulted in a 20 percent cycle time reduction, according to Rich Stueber, operations manager. An early adopter of laser sintering technology, NyproMold currently has a Concept Laser M3 Linear 3D printer. Image courtesy of NyproMold Inc.
This rendering shows the conformal cooling channels created by NyproMold for the mold cores shown in the previous image.
NyproMold has had in-house laser sintering capabilities for more than 10 years. As an early adopter, we approached 3D printing with a consistent, two-step strategy. First, we asked how can 3D printing enable a better part and mold design, which could not be achieved through conventional machining? Second, we wanted to understand the benefit of the 3D-printed part design and objectively determine whether laser sintering is the most cost effective way to deliver this benefit.
Printing dozens of identical inserts in an unattended environment sounds like a simple manufacturing process, but realistically, laser-printed parts with their rough surface texture and wide (+/-0.002 inch) tolerances still require heat treat, subsequent CNC finishing operations and polishing to provide the dimensional accuracy, durability and finish required in our molds. This fact, combined with the high price of the material, means these parts can be costly to produce. Bottom line, 3D printing must provide a quantifiable benefit to plastic part quality, processing or part cost.
To support the decision to use the direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) process, we use a variety of simulation software. Mold cooling scenarios are developed in CAD, and the simulation tools enable us to predict the likely benefits of each unique design. It’s common for us to start with low cavitation development molds to confirm the actual results. The most common objective is reducing cycle time without any negative effects to part quality and consistency. The other leading targets for improvements are part distortion/warp reduction and improved part-to-part dimensional stability. Over time we have found the most cost effective and viable use of DMLS is its application in a hybrid process. Mold core/cavity inserts are partially machined with normal tool steels, and areas that have conformal cooling areas that cannot be machined are formed with the DMLS process. These hybrid components often offer the dual benefits of high durability over time, as well as the innovative conformal cooling that can deliver huge cost and quality benefits. Using DMLS is a consideration on every mold for us, and we have implemented it into production molds up to 96 cavities. While it is a unique and high-value technology, every tool has its place, and in the right cases, the benefits are sizable!
For More Information
Richard Stueber, Operations Manager
NyproMold Inc.
955 Tri-State Parkway
Gurnee, Illinois 60031
847-855-2252
rich.stueber@nypromold.com
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