Advanced Manufacturing Flashcards

In selective laser sintering (SLS), what material property is most critical for achieving dense, high-strength parts?

Answer: Particle size distribution

Particle size distribution directly affects packing density and energy absorption, determining final part density and strength in SLS.

Which of the following best describes the role of cutting fluid in high-speed machining?

Answer: Reducing thermal damage and chip adhesion

Cutting fluids dissipate heat and lubricate the tool-chip interface, preventing built-up edge formation and thermal damage.

What is the primary advantage of using a five-axis CNC machine over a three-axis machine?

Answer: Ability to machine complex contoured surfaces in fewer setups

Five-axis machines tilt the tool relative to the workpiece, enabling complex curved surfaces to be machined with fewer repositioning setups.

In electrical discharge machining (EDM), material removal is achieved by:

Answer: Controlled electrical sparks eroding the workpiece

EDM removes material through rapid electrical discharges (sparks) between the electrode and workpiece, vaporizing small amounts of material.

Which lean manufacturing waste category does excess inventory between production stages represent?

Answer: Overproduction

Excess inventory between stages is classified as overproduction waste, tying up capital and hiding process problems.

In metal injection molding (MIM), what is the purpose of the debinding stage?

Answer: Removing the polymer binder before sintering

Debinding removes the polymer binder system from the green part, leaving a porous metal skeleton that is subsequently sintered to full density.

What does the term 'tool life' typically refer to in machining operations?

Answer: The cutting time before a tool reaches a predefined wear criterion

Tool life is the total cutting time a tool operates before it must be replaced or re-sharpened, defined by a specific flank wear or surface finish criterion.