ADAPTION OF A HEATSINK TO ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING. : INCLUDING A GUIDE TO INDUSTRIAL STARTUP OF AM.

Abstract: This thesis is an investigation of the current status of additive manufacturing (AM) regarding different technologies, the level of implementation in industry and the future obstacles for further implementation. As a secondary objective, an existing heatsink for electronic equipment was redesigned, adapted to and improved using the design advantages of AM, and was later manufactured through 3D-printing in aluminium (AlSi10Mg). The thesis resulted in a summarized roadmap of recommended actions for Saab Surveillance in Järfälla in the near future. And a redesigned heatsink, which was tested to hold a static pressure of 30 bar, and simulated to achieve the same pressure drop in the channel and withstand the same vibration load as the old heatsink. At the same time, the new design reduced the total weight by 20% and increased the heat transferring surface area of the channel by 100%, potentially doubling the heat transfer capability.