COST-EFFECTIVENESS OF DIRECT METAL LASER SINTERED MARAGING STEEL INSERTS FOR PLASTIC INJECTION MOULDING PROCESS

Authors

  • J Combrinck Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering, Central University of Technology Free State, South Africa
  • B van As Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering, Central University of Technology Free State, South Africa
  • G.J. Booysen Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering, Central University of Technology Free State, South Africa
  • D.J. de Beer Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering, Central University of Technology Free State, South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7166/30-3-2263

Abstract

This paper describes an investigation into the possible heat transfer benefits of conformal cooling channels using maraging steel MS1 inserts, which could result in a reduction of cycle times and cost per product, and improve part quality by eliminating defects such as warpage and heat sinks. A manufacturing cost and lead-time comparison showed that a conventionally manufactured insert reached its break-even point after fewer injection moulding cycles than an additive manufactured insert, due to its lower manufacturing costs. During high-volume production, the additive manufactured insert becomes more profitable to use, due to its shorter cycle times.

Downloads

Published

2019-11-15

How to Cite

Combrinck, J., van As, B., Booysen, G., & de Beer, D. (2019). COST-EFFECTIVENESS OF DIRECT METAL LASER SINTERED MARAGING STEEL INSERTS FOR PLASTIC INJECTION MOULDING PROCESS. The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 30(3), 52–62. https://doi.org/10.7166/30-3-2263

Issue

Section

Special Edition