START - Subtractive Technologies for Additively Realised Test-parts Manufactured Parts

Metal cutting, whilst being one of the oldest industries is still a major contributor to the UK’s strong manufacturing base, particular in the aerospace and medical sectors. With the growth in additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing and the ability to competently print metallic alloys, there is now a step change in how components are being created. AM enables near-net part to be manufactured, but additional post processing via CNC machining is necessity to manufacture functional parts with engineering quality. This exciting and timely project in conjunction with Scorpion Tooling, Renishaw Plc and University of Bath will address these challenges of machining additive titanium and nickel based parts and issues by creating a robust and scientifically driven rationale that will devise and test a range of specific cutting tool geometries to enable more efficient and less detrimental finish machining of additively produced metal components. This will enable manufacturers to better leverage the capabilities of AM within their businesses impacting directly on improved quality.