Desktop Metal, Inc.
Method and System for Compaction for Three-Dimensional (3D) Printing

Abstract:

A system and corresponding method for additive manufacturing of a three-dimensional (3D) object to improve uniformity of powder packing density of a powder bed used in the manufacturing process. An embodiment of the system comprises means for rotating at least one compaction roller in a first direction to produce a compacted amount of unbound powder metered onto a top surface of a powder bed and means for rotating the at least one compaction roller in a second direction, opposite of the first direction, to compact the compacted amount further, to enable higher density packing of the powder. Such higher density packing leads to better mechanical interlocking of particles, leading to lower sintering temperatures and reduced deformation of the 3D object during sintering. The uniform packing density enables uniform shrinkage, without warping, of the 3D object during sintering to produce higher quality 3D printed objects.