Subcutaneous coding via laser directed energy deposition (DED-LB) for unalterable component identification

Abstract

Part identification has become a priority in manufacturing, especially when it comes to the additive manufacturing (AM) industry, where the counterfeit printing of almost any digitalized component is possible. As a means of avoiding forgery, the development of non-detectable labels, or digital passports is necessary. In the present work, a novel methodology for printing subcutaneous coding on aeronautical parts is proposed thanks to the multimaterial capabilities of the laser based directed energy deposition (DED-LB). The coding is based on embedding a dot pattern of a high-density alloy on a small area of a lower density component, which once covered and finished generates a pattern only visible by X-ray imagining. The viability of the proposed methodology is proven by embedding WC particles on a Ti6Al4V substrate. Firstly, the most relevant process parameters are optimized to ensure a sharp and a readable code, and their geometry is analysed by means of industrial Computed Tomography (CT). Also, the metallurgical quality and chemical composition of the generated dots is evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Finally, a demonstrator part is fabricated with a hidden code. The code readability and the mechanical properties are tested to ensure the feasibility of the developed methodology.