An Investigation into the Exploratory Use of Additively Manufactured Vanes Subjected to the Impact of a Water Jet Experiment

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has been introduced in many applications as a method of manufacturing complex parts for low loading environments that would normally require substantial machining or large lead times, or in some cases parts that would not be possible using more traditional material removal techniques. AM can offer both an economical alternative to the existing aluminium alloy vanes. The current designs of available vanes are limited to flat/angled or hemispherical profiles. Much more sophisticated vane profiles are possible by using 3D CAD designs that can be tested by means of manufacturing vanes through AM techniques. The paper will compare experimental results of identical vanes made from AM materials to existing aluminium alloy vanes. New vane designs will also be tested, which will allow for comparisons to theoretical models for simple geometries as well as experimentation to produce more complex designs to reduce weight and increase the performance. In addition, other significant factors will also be reviewed, such as cost, build-time, finish and fitness for purpose related to AM manufactured vanes.