In the world of direct additive manufacturing, Selective Laser Melting (SLM) of powdered metal is currently one of the most attractive new technologies with potential to replace lost-wax investment casting because it enables the production of items with high geometrical complexity that are light and customizable. In addition, it provides several environmental advantages.In previous testing, improving the quality of items was achieved both by selecting best construction parameters and by developing alloys with greater laser absorption. In this work the dimensional accuracy of actual jewelry items is assessed and the possibility of making lighter items while maintaining adequate structural strength is explored. In addition, the best working parameters for red-gold and platinum alloys were studied. Dimensional accuracy was assessed by building a metal structure and an actual pavé ring. Then the geometrical conformity of the SLM ring was compared to the original design. The roughness of the metal section, metal density, metal homogeneity, accuracy of ornamental details and quality as a function of orientation on the build platform will be reported.

Author: Damiano Zito