PanX Simulation Advances Metal AM for ASEAN Factories

Advancing Metal Additive Manufacturing with PanX Simulation \\[10pt] The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has recently supported a groundbreaking study that validates the use of PanX thermomechanical simulation for simulating entire build volumes in metal additive manufacturing (AM). This research, published in The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, focuses on the predictive capabilities of PanX in understanding thermal and mechanical behavior in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) builds using Ti-6Al-4V, a common material in aerospace and other high-value applications. \\[10pt] For factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, this development is particularly significant. As these countries continue to invest in advanced manufacturing technologies, the ability to predict and mitigate risks in the AM process can lead to substantial cost savings and improved product quality. By moving beyond trial-and-error methods and adopting physics-based models, manufacturers can ensure that their builds are reliable and meet stringent industry standards. \\[10pt] The study found that PanX accurately computed interlayer temperatures throughout the print, with errors ranging from 2-14%. This level of accuracy is crucial for identifying potential crack-risk locations, which can be addressed before the build process begins. Additionally, PanX can account for variable geometries and build layouts, making it a versatile tool for different manufacturing scenarios. \\[10pt] Erik Denlinger, Co-Founder and Chief Engineer at PanOptimization, emphasizes the importance of validated simulation in achieving industrial maturity in AM. "If simulation can predict the outcome of a build quickly and accurately, it becomes a way to identify and mitigate risk before material, machine time, and production schedules are put at risk. That is exactly where PanX is focused," he says. \\[10pt] For ASEAN manufacturers, the implications are clear. Failed builds and failed qualifications are not only costly but also time-consuming. PanX provides a route to understand build risk before committing production resources, ensuring that the final products meet the required specifications. As metal AM moves further into production, the ability to simulate entire build volumes accurately, quickly, and with transferable physics is becoming essential. \\[10pt] In conclusion, the AFRL-supported research places PanX at the forefront of this transition, offering a competitive advantage to ASEAN factories looking to adopt and optimize metal AM processes. By leveraging PanX's capabilities, manufacturers can enhance their production efficiency, reduce waste, and deliver high-quality products that meet the demands of the global market.