Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
5-2024
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M. Eng.
Department
Mechanical Engineering
Committee Chair
Kate, Kunal
Committee Member
Berfield, Thomas
Committee Member
Atre, Sundar
Committee Member
Satyavolu, Jagannadh
Author's Keywords
Manufacturing; paste printing; in space manufacturing; aluminum magnesium alloys; sintering
Abstract
This study explores the additive manufacturing process of paste printing, sintering, and de-binding for fabricating aluminum-magnesium alloy components. The paste formulation involved combining aluminum powder with varying magnesium concentrations, utilizing acrylic polyol, solvent, and plasticizer to create a homogeneous mixture. Printing parameters were optimized to ensure continuous pressure for improved extrusion. Sintering conditions involved incremental temperature increases with nitrogen flow to remove solvents. Density measurements, tensile tests, and shrinkage calculations were conducted to assess part quality post-sintering. The study revealed significant improvements in part quality with 5 wt.% magnesium incorporation within aluminum, although density and tensile strength fell short of aluminum standards. Ongoing research explores higher magnesium concentrations for optimization. Challenges related to sintering, such as adhesion and curvature, highlight the need for temperature control. Additionally, density calculations suggested potential enhancements with increased magnesium content. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the additive manufacturing of aluminum alloys, offering pathways for sustainable solutions and waste reduction in various applications, mostly in space.
Recommended Citation
Ndiaye, Fatou, "Development, 3D Printing, and Sintering of Aluminum-Magnesium Alloy Pastes for In-Space Manufacturing Applications" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4412.
Retrieved from https://ir.library.louisville.edu/etd/4412
