Sigma Labs' Inspect 4.1 Enables 3D Structure Analysis

Sigma Labs, a provider of software under the PrintRite3D brand, has released PrintRite3D Inpect 4.1 software featuring 100 micron resolution and 200 KHz speed with interlayer real-time results viewing, enabling correlation between in-process quality results and post-process CT results.

John Rice, CEO of Sigma Labs, says, “The latest version of our Inspect software further simplifies a daunting challenge facing all companies engaged in metal additive manufacturing: analyzing the structure of a 3D-printed metal part during the manufacturing process and adjusting the process in real time to further assure quality.”

Comprising software for in-process inspection of metallurgical properties, PrintRite3D Inspect uses sensor data and establishes in-process quality metrics for each metal or alloy during the process. It is said to provide manufacturing engineers with part quality reports based on rigorous statistical analysis of manufacturing process data and allows for interrogation of suspect part data that can be used for process improvement and optimization.

Sigma Labs’ methodology identifies the thermal signatures of printed metal material (the melt pool) while the part is being manufactured. This methodology maps flaws in real time. Specific thermal signatures can also be used to optimize part design. The identification and mapping of thermal signatures using Sigma’s methodology and CT testing furthers the understanding of flaw detection, reduces risk in parts that are not CT-inspected, and is said to provide a more complete picture of discontinuities in the part and what conditions during the manufacturing process lead to their formation.