Laser metal deposition (LMD), alternatively known as neat net shape, is a process which uses a high-power laser beam, connected to a robot or gantry system, to form a melt pool on metallic substrate into which powder or metal wire is fed. Linde (former AGA) supplies customers with gaseous or liquid helium, argon and nitrogen systems to assist with laser metal deposition processes.
The process
In LMD, the powder is contained in a carrier gas and blown towards the substrate through a nozzle that is concentric with the laser beam. The laser beam anneals the powder particles before they hit the substrate and fuses them to form the component layer by layer. A second gas jet is often used to shield the annealed area against atmospheric gases, especially when higher deposition rates are required. The method is suitable for larger components where a higher deposition rate is required. LMD is used for a wide range of applications including cladding and repair carried out for example as a mould-to-surface application for high-value parts such as aerospace engine components and military equipment.
Best process gases for LMD and L-PBF processes
- High-purity argon, nitrogen and helium
- LASGON® bespoke laser process gas solutions
Note: hydrocarbons and moisture must be avoided.
Linde (former AGA) solutions for LMD processes
- Argon, helium, nitrogen gas supply – design, provision and installation
- Active gas supply – gases mixed in advance or on site satisfying specific process demands
- On-site support – process and/or technical support
- On-stream gas system – design and maintenance services
- Gas safety – equipment, safety checks and training
