CORNELIS VAN NIEKERK AT APICAM 2023

CORNELIS VAN NIEKERK AT APICAM 2023

Cornelis Van Niekerk (Business Manager Defence Welding, Weld Australia) recently presented a highly engaging presentation at the Asia-Pacific International Conference on Additive Manufacturing (APICAM). The title of his presentation was: From Challenges to Rewards with HDR SWIR Imaging in Metal Additive Manufacturing

Recent advances in Metal Additive Manufacturing have led to greater application of the technology in new markets and at new scales. This has driven an increased requirement for real-time in-situ process monitoring solutions. Researchers have made significant progress in modeling, simulation and applied techniques, with innovations in vision systems enabling some key advances.

The novel approach of combining high dynamic range vision technology with SWIR sensors overcomes several hurdles related to defect detection in DED and WAAM processes. Harsh, high temperature environments with high contrast scenes, high-speed processes, and changing emissivity is challenging with even the best of sensors. As build and part sizes grow, so do the cost of failure. Only constant and reliable monitoring and control can help lessen an expensive, and possibly catastrophic, failure.

Specific benefits that HDR SWIR imaging offer include a human-like vision experience – even when brightness levels far exceed the range we normally can discern; real-time 2D thermography of the process with higher temperature measurement accuracy than other non-contact sensors; and an ability to view clearly through particulates and glass, without expensive and problematic secondary lighting requirements.

Hosted by Materials Australia, APICAM was created to provide an opportunity for industry professionals, academics and thought-leaders to come together, share knowledge and engage in the type of networking that is vital to furthering the additive manufacturing industry.