Kyle Perkins

Kyle Perkins is a Research Fellow at the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences within the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom. His research focuses on advancing metal additive manufacturing through laser-based processes and thermal modeling.

Research Interests

Perkins' work centers on critical challenges in industrial additive manufacturing:

• Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) process optimization
• Heat and mass transfer dynamics in melt pools
• Advanced in-situ monitoring techniques (Schlieren/X-ray imaging)
• Novel powder bed and sheet-based manufacturing methodologies
• Laser defocusing effects on metal processing
• Thermal calibration for high-precision metal 3D printing

His research bridges fundamental thermal physics with practical manufacturing solutions to enhance part quality and process reliability in metal additive systems.

Publication Trends

From 2022-2025, Perkins' publications reveal a strategic progression from foundational heat source calibration (2022) to innovative process developments. His recent work (2024-2025) emphasizes multi-modal process monitoring, spatial laser control, and next-generation powder handling – demonstrating a clear trajectory toward real-time process control and industrial scalability in metal additive manufacturing.

Scientific Awards

No scientific awards were documented in the provided materials.

Research Environment

Perkins operates within Heriot-Watt's Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences, collaborating extensively on laser-material interaction studies. His work integrates experimental imaging, thermal modeling, and process engineering to address industry bottlenecks in metal additive manufacturing.