Selective laser melting for dental arch bar

• Main Author: Kwek, Marcus Feng Yi
• Other Authors: Yeong Wai Yee
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2019
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/78580
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Selective laser melting of 316L stainless steel of wires of various diameters and shapes to determine the feasibility of fabricating dental arch bars. The feasibility is assessed by the dimensional accuracy and the mechanical properties of the fabricated wires. Cylindrical wires of different diameters (Ø1.5mm, Ø2.0mm and Ø2.5mm), D-shaped wires (Ø1.5mm x 0.75mm) and 3 sets of dental arch bars were fabricated with the recommended process parameters given by the machine’s manufacturer. The dimensions of the cylindrical wires and the D-shaped wires were measured using Vernier calipers, and surface roughness scans were done using laser confocal microscope. CT scans were done on the dental arch bars to obtain the STL models and the accuracy of the parts are then measured by overlaying and comparing with the reference file. Warpage of the samples were observed after the removal of the support structures. Deviations in dimensions were also observed in the wires during the measurements done using Vernier calipers and in the dental arch bars after the overlaying of the STL files. Mechanical properties obtain from the tensile testing were stronger then 316L (base) but weaker then 316L (welded), suggesting a hybrid behavior or a possibility of defect. Surface roughness measured were poor as compared to as received orthodontic wires used.