Rapid Electroforming Tooling

Author

Bo Yang
Ming-Chuan Leu, Missouri University of Science and TechnologyFollow

Abstract

A method of rapid electroforming tooling for the production of metal tools including molds, dies, and electrical discharge machining electrodes is developed. Geometry and material of the solid freeform fabricated part, properties of the electroformed metal, and process parameters are significant factors that cause inaccuracy in the manufactured tools. Thermomechanical modeling and numerical simulation are used to simulate thermal stresses induced during the burnout process that removes the rapid prototyping part from the electroform. The analysis demonstrates that appropriate design of the rapid prototyping part geometry and selection of electroform thickness not only reduce thermal stress, thus improving tooling accuracy, but also minimize manufacturing time and cost.

Recommended Citation

B. Yang and M. Leu, "Rapid Electroforming Tooling," Proceedings of Materials Research Society Symposium, Materials Research Society, Apr 2000.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Computer Simulation; Electric Discharges; Electrodes; Layered Manufacturing; Metal Molding; Rapid Prototyping; Thermal Stress; Thermomechanical Treatment

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2000 Materials Research Society, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Apr 2000