R_Bibb_Medical_Modelling_The_Application_of_Adv.pdf

6.86 The RPD framework designed in FreeForm® CAD.
Case studies 235
application for dental technologies due to the ability to produce complex
shaped objects in hard-wearing and corrosion resistant metals and alloys
directly from CAD data. SLM TM is described in Section 5.5.3.
In order to build the RPD framework successfully using the SLM TM
Realizer machine (MCP-HEK GmbH SLM Tech Centre Paderbom,
Hauptstrasse 35, 33178 Borchen, Germany, www.mcp-group.com/index.
html), adequate supports had to be created using Magics software (Version
9.5, Materialise NV, Technologielaan 15, 3001 Leuven, Belgium). The
purpose of the supports is to provide a fi rm base for the part to be built
onto whilst separating the part from the substrate plate. In addition, the
supports conduct heat away from the material as it melts and solidifi es
during the build process. Inadequate support results in incomplete parts or
heat induced curl, which leads to build failure. As the supports need to be
removed with tools, the part was oriented such that the supports avoided
the fi tting surface of the RPD, as shown in Fig. 6.87. This meant that the
most important surfaces of the resultant part would not be affected or
damaged by the supports or their removal.