Methods of manufacturing and cleaning
US10376932B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 3, 2016 |
| Grant date | Aug 13, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 5, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P10/25
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods of cleaning internal portions of additively manufactured components are provided, together with an apparatus for carrying out the cleaning. The methods use an impacting element which is contained within the internal portion and the component is vibrated to clean material from the component and leave one or more hollow portions. Various embodiments for retaining the impacting element are set out, which preferably use a grid which allows loosened powder to fall out of the component and, optionally, be recycled for use in further manufacturing processes. The methods are described in relation to components for gas turbine engines but have wider application in relation to any additively manufactured component in which it is desired to have a hollow internal portion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.