Open AccessLightweight nodal parts for large space truss structures enabled by SLM: modelling, manufacturing, and testing
Author(s) -
E. S. Golubev,
М. В. Архипов,
A. L. Galinovsky,
A Klem
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
iop conference series. materials science and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1757-899X
pISSN - 1757-8981
DOI - 10.1088/1757-899x/1060/1/012010
Subject(s) - selective laser melting , aerospace , truss , computer science , mechanical engineering , frame (networking) , topology optimization , engineering drawing , structural engineering , engineering , materials science , finite element method , aerospace engineering , microstructure , metallurgy
Selective laser melting (SLM), as a method of metal additive manufacturing, has developed rapidly over the last years to become a breakthrough technology capable of upending the way that products from aerospace and other various industrial sectors are not only fabricated but also designed. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential benefits and drawbacks of SLM implementation in the frame of design and development of components for large space lightweight structures. The three types of the most common structural engineering solutions are compared, based on the different manufacturing techniques and materials. The paper describes the results of the measurement of the shape of fittings after fabrication and cryogenic temperature-cycle tests. An extra option for the weight reduction of structures is given via the implementation of the topology optimization method. Three challenges have been identified, including quality of surfaces, deviation of geometry, residual internal stresses. This work shows the possibility to solve this topical issue by using a waterjet inspection technique and represents one of the first attempts for its implementation to perform a fast evaluation of mechanical properties of structural materials manufactured using SLM.