Abstract: A method for inspection of additive manufactured parts and monitoring operational performance of an additive manufacturing apparatus is provided. The method includes a step of obtaining, in real-time during an additively manufactured build process, a backscatter x-ray scan of an area of a build platform. The build platform is configured for supporting at least one part during the build process. An evaluating step evaluates, by a processor, the backscatter x-ray scan. A determining step determines, based on the evaluating, whether an operational flaw with the additive manufacturing apparatus has occurred or a defect in the at least one part has occurred. A backscatter x-ray system has an emitter that emits x-rays and a detector that receives backscattered x-rays. The emitter and detector are located on a movable support located above the build platform, and the movable support raises and lowers the emitter and detector with respect to the build platform.

Abstract: A method for inspection of additive manufactured parts and monitoring operational performance of an additive manufacturing apparatus is provided. The method includes a step of obtaining, in real-time during an additively manufactured build process, a backscatter x-ray scan of an area of a build platform. The build platform is configured for supporting at least one part during the build process. An evaluating step evaluates, by a processor, the backscatter x-ray scan. A determining step determines, based on the evaluating, whether an operational flaw with the additive manufacturing apparatus has occurred or a defect in the at least one part has occurred. A backscatter x-ray system has an emitter that emits x-rays and a detector that receives backscattered x-rays. The emitter and detector are located on a movable support located above the build platform, and the movable support raises and lowers the emitter and detector with respect to the build platform.

Abstract: A method for inspection of additive manufactured parts and monitoring operational performance of an additive manufacturing apparatus is provided. The method includes a heating step for heating an area of a build platform on which at least one part is built by the additive manufacturing apparatus. An obtaining step is used for obtaining, in real-time during an additively manufactured build process, a thermographic scan of the area of the build platform. An evaluating step evaluates, by a processor, the thermographic scan. A determining step determines, based on the evaluating, whether an operational flaw with the additive manufacturing apparatus has occurred or a defect in the at least one part has occurred.