Initial Investigation of Selective Laser Sintering Laser Power vs Part Porosity Using In-Situ Optical Coherence Tomography

Abstract

Additional types of process sensors could be useful in further improving consistency of Selectively Laser Sintered (SLS) parts. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has shown promise as a new SLS process sensor which can yield depth resolved data not attainable with conventional sensors. This study investigates the use of OCT as a tool to determine part porosity. Various laser powers were used during the build and the in-situ OCT data corresponding to the various laser powers are compared. The finished part was then imaged using X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT). Porosity data was obtained and is compared with the OCT data.