An Aerospace Integrated Component Application Based on Selective Laser Melting: Design, Fabrication and Fe Simulation
Abstract
Developments in Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies have enabled the
integrated manufacturing of complex structures with multifunctional performances. Selective
Laser Melting (SLM), as one of them, becomes the candidate for production of metallic aviation
spaceflight structures because of its high precision for controlling architecture and excellent
performance. An aerospace component named Upper-stage Cabin was selected for integrated
design without connectors, and then manufactured by a SLM system using Ti-6Al-4V powder.
The dimensional accuracy of the component was verified through testing; It’s mechanical
response was analyzed under compressive loading test, compared with the results of numerical
simulation. The study found that SLM technology is an effective means for integrated design
and manufacture of Upper-stage Cabin structures for aerospace. The dimensional precision of
the complex integrated structures formed by SLM meets the application requirements. The
formed integrated components have achieved good mechanical properties, which promote the
application of this technology in aerospace field.