Maturity Assessment of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Process Chain Modelling and Simulation

Abstract

This paper presents case studies of additive manufacturing process chains including laser powder bed fusion and post-processes. The presented case studies are used to assess the maturity of the manufacturing process chains using a Modelling and Simulation Readiness Level Scale. The results from the assessment have shown that the maturity of the modelling and simulation of laser powder bed fusion process chains lies between the stage of applied research and development and the stage of being instrumental, with high reliance on modelling and simulation experts. This means that the laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process chain modelling and simulation can support low-risk development, with high reliance on modelling and simulation experts, making them suitable for qualitative assessment, alternative design/solution ranking, defining the design structure, constraining the design space and replacing some experimental trials. This shows that further maturation is required before the modelling and simulation methods and codes are well recognised as best practice in the industry and are part of operational process control at any stage of the supply chain.