Advanced powder flow regulation in DED-LB/P and EHLA3D via a novel nozzle-integrated fluidic powder switching mechanism
Abstract
In this work, a novel fluidic powder switch is developed, featuring an innovative design that enables near-instantaneous switching of a powder flow. Unlike conventional solutions, the fluid-based mechanism eliminates the need for mechanical switching elements in the powder conveying line, reducing system wear and enabling direct integration into a Laser Material Deposition (LMD or DED-LB/P) nozzle. The present work focuses on the evaluation and systematic assessment of the main functionality of toggling of a focused powder gas jet by analyzing switching times, delays caused by system inertia, and the stability and repeatability of the switching process. Measurements in a dedicated experimental setup show that a stable powder flow is consistently achieved within
Fields of Study & Subjects
Additive Manufacturing Materials and Processes
Plasma and Flow Control in Aerodynamics
Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Laser Applications
- Publisher
- Laser Institute of America
- Volume
- 38
- Issue
- 3
- Publication date
- 15 June 2026
- Language
- EN