The goal of RAPOLAC is to develop the process to the point where it can reliably produce parts with repeatable material properties in a range of materials. To achieve these goals, RAPOLAC has 3 main research strands:
- Investigation of part microstructure and material properties
- Process modelling at micro- and macro- scales
- Process control
The exploitation of the results leads to another 2 strands:
- Integration of the process controller
- Development of a busniess case for SMEs
The outputs of the project will therefore include:
- A set of parameters for each material chosen
- A database of material properties, residual stresses and susceptibility to fracture for a given combinaiton of material, parameters and part geometry.
- A control system integrated with the main SMD cell
- A cost and environmental comparison of SMD and traditional production processes
- A business plan for SMD
- Example parts with different geometries
The achievements of RAPOLAC will be fully documented and best practice guides, training modules and other material will be made available
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