micro-CT of lattice structures manufactured by metal 3D printing (laser powder bed fusion)

This project aims to understand the printability and mechanical properties of fine lattice structures. The process-structure-property relationships of lattices produced via laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) were systematically investigated. 

In this study, the motivation was to characterise and test 3D printed fine lattice structures and establish the process-structure-property relationship. 

The manufacturability and compressive properties of lattices with varying strut diameters, produced under fixed process parameters, were evaluated through CT scanning and compression tests. The elastic response was predicted and analysed using FEA models with reconstructed models capturing experimental results more accurately by accounting for imperfections. These models also enabled the calculation of effective elastic properties through homogenisation theory and provided insight into the mechanical behaviour of LPBF processed lattices. 

 NXCT supported this work by providing beamtime access to carry out the micro-CT characterisation of the fine lattice structures, technical expertise and computing facilities for image analysis. All the scans were performed on the Nikon High Flux Bay.  

XCT has offered crucial, high resolution, non destructive insights into the internal architecture of the lattice structures, making it an indispensable tool for this study.

“Firstly, this study highlights the differences properties of lattices achieved through our manufacturing facilities and theoretical modelling. The significance of this work lies in improving our understanding and modelling of fine lattice structures, leading to development of more resilient .”

Gowtham Nimmal Haribabu, Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Postdoctoral Research Associate 

Equipment: Nikon High Flux Bay