Forming Aluminum Structures

摘要

The VPS process can be tailored by varying the precursor materials, particle dimensions, plasma velocity, and mandrel temperature. The density of the deposited materials depends directly on the plasma velocity. The velocity controls the time that the particles are exposed to the heating zone, and the kinetic energy with which they impact the rotating mandrel / substrate. The plasma gun and the mandrel are computer controlled, allowing fabrication of complex shapes. The high temperature of the plasma implies that virtually any material that can be melted is suitable for spraying to controlled thickness and geometries. The process results in a very effective use of precursor materials, because waste is minimal, parts are sprayed to near net shape, and little final machining is required.