DIRECTED ENERGY DEPOSITION

 

Directed Energy Deposition Illustration 

DIRECTED ENERGY DEPOSITION (DED)

It is an additive manufacturing method, in which simultaneous material deposition and energy source is present. The material in the form of either powder or wire is feed through nozzle or feeding mechanism and the focused energy source melts material to get deposit and fused with the existing structure. The focused energy source can be plasma arc, laser beam or electron beam as well.

Based on the type of application DED processes can also be called by different other names such as below;

1. Laser Engineered Net Shaping (LENS) 

2. Direct Metal Deposition (DMD) 

3. Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing (EBAM) 

4. Directed Light Fabrication 

5. Laser Cladding

Directed energy deposition (DED) is a 3D printing technology used to build up parts by adding material layer-by-layer. It is typically used for larger parts or for repairing existing objects. DED systems use a range of different energy sources, including lasers, electron beams, and plasma torches, to melt or vaporize metal powder or wire as it is deposited onto a substrate. The focus of the energy beam can be moved around precisely to create the desired shape. One advantage of directed energy deposition is that it can be used to repair existing objects made from metals or other materials. The process can also be used to build up multi-material structures. Directed energy deposition is a versatile technology with a range of potential applications in manufacturing, repair, and design.

These processes are most commonly used for the production of metallic materials such as Inconel, titanium alloys, aluminium, tantalum and stainless steel etc.