Design Optimization of Support Structures Based on Numerical Simulation of the Temperature Fields in Selective Laser Melting

A support structure is an essential part in a selective laser melting process. It is required especially in cases where heat accumulates in overhangs. Heat stress and warping may occur due to heat accumulation in overhangs. These defects ultimately affect the dimensional and geometrical accuracy of a part. Therefore, this work investigates the influence of the number of support contact points on the temperature field, and improves columnar support for good heat conduction by increasing branch structures. Finite element analyses are carried out for studying the heat conduction of different support structures. The simulation results reveal that the heat conduction of the support structure is proportional to the number of support contact points. Moreover, it is shown that tree-shaped support has better heat conduction than columnar support.