Laser Metal Deposition: Examining Technologies and Applications

This report provides a comprehensive overview of laser metal deposition (LMD) within the context of additive manufacturing. It begins by introducing additive manufacturing and its various technologies, including material extrusion, vat polymerization, material jetting, sheet lamination, powder bed fusion, and laser direct metal deposition. The report delves into the principles and processes of LMD, highlighting its application in creating metallurgical bonds and cladding. It also addresses the problem statement concerning the optimization of laser deposition processes and outlines the objectives of simplifying the process and enhancing cladding quality. The literature review section discusses laser additive manufacturing, its classification, and its advantages over conventional methods, emphasizing the importance of material science, laser technology, and metallurgical data. Finally, the report examines laser-assisted direct metal deposition, focusing on the use of CAD models and the injection of metal powder into the laser path to create a melt pool and build components layer by layer.