Cooling rate modeling for welds and metal 3D prints
The algorithm enables all thermal sensors with different frequencies to measure the cooling rates of the meltpool and the solidified region during welding and additive manufacturing.
Highlights
- The algorithm enables all thermal sensors with different frequencies to measure the cooling rates of the meltpool and the solidified region during welding and additive manufacturing.
Opportunity
The University of Alberta researchers have developed a real-time technique for accurately measuring the cooling rate of materials in welding and additive manufacturing processes. The method utilizes high-frequency data from thermal sensors (e.g., IR cameras or pyrometers) to achieve: • Real-Time Computation: Provides instantaneous cooling rate data. • Emissivity Independence: The algorithm is unaffected by variations in material emissivity, ensuring consistent accuracy. • Full Thermal Cycle Coverage: Applies seamlessly across both the liquid and solid temperature ranges for comprehensive analysis. This robust approach establishes a reliable basis for enhanced process control and higher-quality outcomes. The algorithm is tested in the lab using different thermal cameras and a pyrometer.
Competitive advantage
- Real-time data
- More accurate
- Enhanced process control and higher-quality outcomes
Status
- U.S. Patent Pending
About University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a large, comprehensive public research university in Edmonton with multiple campuses and a strong applied research culture. Industry engages through co-located labs and pilot-scale facilities, as well as established co-op and internship programs that place talent with partners year-round. Integration with Alberta’s province-wide hospital system supports clinical research and accelerates translation. Companies also benefit from proximity to regional industry clusters and collaboration hubs on and near campus for joint R&D and prototyping. Supported by NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, and Canada Foundation for Innovation funding—plus provincial and industry support—the tech transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation with streamlined sponsored-research agreements.
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