Abstract

The project aims to develop and optimize the additive manufacturing of metal parts using Metal Extrusion (MEX/M) as an alternative to conventional metal powder-based technologies, with the goal of reducing costs, energy consumption, and the risks associated with the handling of raw materials. The process uses filaments composed of metal powder and a polymer binder to manufacture a green part, which is subsequently subjected to debinding and sintering, achieving high densities and good mechanical properties, although with significant shrinkage that affects dimensional accuracy. The research will initially focus on identifying and optimizing process parameters to improve the quality and repeatability of the parts. To this end, a sensorized test bench will be developed to enable real-time, layer-by-layer process control and monitoring, overcoming the limitations of commercial machines. In addition, a multimodal data integration system will be developed to correlate the information obtained during manufacturing with the results from the different stages of the process, from deposition through to the production of the final part. Overall, this research line aims to improve the accuracy, quality, and efficiency of metal additive manufacturing by reducing defects, processing times, costs, and resource consumption. It also seeks to generate scientific and technological knowledge, promote the industrial adoption of additive manufacturing, contribute to more sustainable production, strengthen the scientific and technological standing of the University of Oviedo, and foster the training of researchers and professionals, as well as collaboration with national and international companies and research groups.