Learn why and how to scale PRM files.
Video length (4:42).
Sample files for use with the tutorials are available for download at https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/tsarticles/ts/2Yfrn77HGCZfr2IUaGPEJb.html. Expand the downloaded ZIP archive into a convenient directory from which you can import files into Simulation Utility LT as you need them.
This tutorial guides you through a scenario in which PRM scaling functionality can be used to improve simulation accuracy. For this exercise, assume that a test geometry has been printed out of Inconel 718. Experimental measurements show a peak distortion along the external face of 0.40 mm. This test print is used to validate the PRM file before more complex geometries will be simulated and optimized prior to printing.
This imports the STL file and automatically sizes the build plate:
Deselect Match part deposition material, and in the Material menu, select SAE 304 stainless steel, which is commonly used with Inconel powder.
When the simulation finishes, the results are displayed and the Results tab opens.
The peak distortion predicted using the generic Inconel 718 PRM file is 0.17 mm which is much lower than the experimentally measured 0.40 mm. The model-measurement correlation can be improved by scaling the PRM file.
Using the scaled PRM file attains model results within 1% of the actual measurements. This scaled PRM file can then be used to perform simulations of this material and processing parameter combination with confidence in the accuracy of the predicted distortion.