Advanced Quality Assurance of Additive Manufacturing Through Computed Tomography

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM), while revolutionary in its ability to fabricate complex geometries, continues to present substantial challenges in quality assurance. This study explores an innovative integrated approach to improve validation protocols, adhering to ISO 16792 guidelines, by combining computed tomography (CT) scanning with GOM metrology software. Fused deposition modeling, stereolithography, and selective laser sintering techniques were used to additively manufacture test specimens. The use of CT scanning enabled in-depth examination of the internal structure of the samples, successfully revealing voids of up to 2.3 mm. Simultaneously, the GOM software provided precise quantification of external geometric discrepancies, identifying deviations ranging from −0.66 mm to 1.36 mm in comparison with the original CAD models. This comprehensive validation technique thus facilitated the detection of internal defects while verifying external dimensions within a tolerance of ±0.2 mm. The results underscore the considerable potential of this integrated technology approach in advancing quality assurance protocols in the field of additive manufacturing.