The Influence of Orientation by SLM Additive Manufacturing Process on Surface Integrity

The research involves a detailed analysis of the surface integrity of printed samples generated and produced by additive manufacturing based on Selective Laser Melting technology. The technological principle involves melting a fine metal powder with a heat source that generates a focused laser beam. The fine metal powder is stored in a filling hopper, where it is selectively applied layer by layer into the main hopper. After one layer has been scanned, the laser stops working and the main tray drops by the height of one layer. The new powder is then added to this height, which is evenly applied and compacted to the required density. The entire process is reiterated until the components reach the desired height. This technology represents a favourable alternative to conventional technologies, as the components produced have similar properties to those of traditional technologies. It is an eco-friendly manufacturing method where unused metal powder is recyclable through a predefined process for the next printing cycle, making it nearly zero-waste. This research aims to analyze and contrast the impact of various orientations of printed parts within the workspace on the surface quality of produced samples. Five orientations were employed in the Selective Laser Melting fabrication process for experimental purposes. From the conducted measurements, it is evident that the orientation of parts within the workspace substantially affects the surface integrity of components manufactured through additive processes.