Technical Summary

Meris’s research focuses on optimizing post-processing treatments for components produced via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB), an additive manufacturing method known for its flexibility and efficiency. Despite its advantages, PBF-LB often results in challenges such as surface roughness, which can adversely affect mechanical properties like friction and fatigue strength. This research addresses the critical technical challenge of achieving suitable surface finishes for PBF-LB components, which is essential for their performance in engineering applications.

The novelty of this study lies in systematically exploring the effects of various post-processing treatments on surface quality. By employing different treatments, the research aims to determine the most effective methods for reducing surface roughness and enhancing the mechanical integrity of the components. The insights gained from this research are vital, as they contribute to a better understanding of how to optimize surface characteristics in metal additive manufacturing, which is still a relatively underexplored area.

This topic is particularly exciting because improving surface quality not only enhances the performance of additively manufactured parts but also broadens the potential applications of PBF-LB technology across various industries, including aerospace and medical sectors. Ultimately, this work seeks to pave the way for more reliable and efficient metal additive manufacturing processes, promoting innovation in material design and production techniques.