Dual-Material Minimum Weight Structures Fabrication Using Ultrasonic Consolidation

摘要

The multi-material capability of additive manufacturing (AM) processes has created opportunities for structural designs that would otherwise be impossible. This work involves the development of a methodology for fabricating dual-material minimum-weight structures using ultrasonic consolidation (UC). Sample structures were designed, fabricated and tested for load carrying capabilities. Analyses of results show that dual-material minimum weight structures made of A13003/MetPreg® and A13003/Ti composite material members can withstand significantly higher strain energy densities up to the point of failure than similar structures made of Al 3003 alone. This is an indication that UC can be effectively used to fabricate multi-material structures for real life applications.