The Center for Advanced Manufacturing focuses on advancing additive manufacturing processes such as solid-state deposition, direct energy deposition, and powder bed fusion technologies. By studying and teaching these cutting-edge processes, we equip students and industry partners with the skills needed to innovate and optimize production. This empowers manufacturers to compete more effectively in the national and global market.
Solid-State Deposition
Solid-state deposition, like Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing (CSAM) or Additive Friction Stir Deposition (AFSD), builds metal parts without melting, using high pressure gas or friction and pressure to deposit material. This technique enhances material properties, reduces residual stress, and allows for complex geometries, making it ideal for high-performance components in aerospace, automotive, and defense sectors.
Learning solid-state deposition techniques can significantly benefit manufacturers by enhancing their ability to produce high-quality, complex components with improved material properties and reduced defects. This knowledge fosters innovation, optimizes production processes, and provides a competitive edge in the high-performance manufacturing sector.
Direct Energy Deposition
Direct Energy Deposition (DED) uses focused thermal energy, such as a laser or electron beam, to melt and deposit material simultaneously. This process allows for precise control over material placement and properties, making it ideal for creating and repairing high-performance components with intricate geometries. Learning DED techniques can enhance manufacturers’ capabilities, driving innovation and optimizing production processes in sectors like aerospace, automotive, and medical.
Powder Bed Fusion
Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) employs a laser or electron beam to selectively fuse powdered material, layer by layer, to create detailed and complex parts. This method excels in producing components with exceptional mechanical properties and fine features. Mastering PBF techniques can greatly benefit manufacturers by enhancing their ability to innovate and efficiently produce intricate parts for aerospace, medical, and industrial applications.