Copper LPBF engineering utility

Internal channel readiness score

Screen a cooling channel concept before detailed build planning. The score highlights geometry, powder evacuation and verification constraints that commonly drive redesign in laser powder bed fusion.

Describe the most demanding channel path

Use the smallest diameter, longest path and tightest bend in the design. Conservative inputs produce a more useful first review.

Geometry
Use an equivalent hydraulic diameter for non-circular sections.
Measure between accessible openings or clean-out points.
Count direction changes that interrupt a straight cleaning path.
A larger radius-to-diameter ratio reduces local risk.
0° is horizontal; 90° is vertical.
Temporary clean-out ports count only if they are physically reachable.
Performance expectations
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72

Preliminary readiness

Conditional — review before release

The concept is plausible, but one or more constraints should be resolved before quoting or freezing the CAD model.

Path ratio L/D 20.0
Tight bend R/D 2.0
Bends / 100 mm 3.3

What to resolve next

    How to use the result

    Compare alternative routing concepts using the same performance assumptions. A higher score means fewer obvious early constraints—not a guaranteed build outcome.

    Inputs that deserve drawings

    • Cross-section transitions and junctions
    • Temporary powder-removal ports
    • Pressure and leak acceptance criteria
    • Inspection access and CT resolution

    Important limitation

    This heuristic does not model melt-pool physics, distortion, support strategy, thermal history, actual powder removal or machine-specific process capability. Final acceptance requires supplier review and, where appropriate, coupon or prototype evidence.