Using Raman spectroscopy to monitor surface finish and roughness of components manufactured by selective laser sintering

Selective laser sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing process used to realise fully functional component manufacture. Numerous parameters are used in the process to control variables such as laser power, scan speed, laser spot size and overlap of scan vectors. All of these parameters can dramatically alter the sintering process and therefore final component properties. This paper presents how Raman spectroscopy intensity effects, caused by the surface roughness of the components produced, can be used to monitor the degree of sintering between particles in the SLS process. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.