Quality Analysis of Mould Insert Produced by Additive Technology

Abstract

The paper deals with monitoring the quality of a shaped part of a mould made from H13 tool steel using additive manufacturing. The shaped part of the mould is a key element in the casting of aluminium alloys by high pressure die casting (HPDC) technology and has a major influence on achieving the desired quality of the casting. This paper presents an evaluation methodology which includes the results of surface quality analysis and dimensional accuracy and stability of additively manufactured parts. These analyses were carried out from the production of the mould part to its application in the foundry operating conditions. The comprehensive analyses offer an overall view of the changes caused by individual technological operations. These operations are additive manufacturing, heat treatment, machining, and final coating before implementation into the operating conditions of the foundry. The paper also describes monitoring the quality of the mould part in regular cycles during the production of aluminium castings. This methodology and the results provide new insights in the field of engineering metallurgy.