Method for Evaluating Candidates for Additive Manufacturing (AM) Processes

ABSTRACT: The primary objective of the Phase I project is to establish the feasibility of applying a methodology to assess a candidate legacy part to determine the viability of using Additive Manufacturing methods to produce the part. This objective will be accomplished by creating a guided decision framework that determines if a part aligns with the critical process characteristics and economics of AM methods. BENEFIT: When an engineer in a Sustainment Center is faced with the challenge of producing an out-of-production legacy part, the selection of the manufacturing method must be consistent with the OEM specifications and properties for reliable function of the part. Additive Manufacturing, as a new emerging process, is making available an alternate approach for rapidly generating a shape for manufacturing or possibly the net-shape finished part that is needed. Having a"process selection"guide or"evaluation"methodology available would be an effective first step in applying AM methods within the Sustainment Centers.