A characterization method for mechanical properties of metal powder bed fusion parts

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to develop a characterization method for parts fabricated in metal powder bed fusion (PBF) processes, a type of additive manufacturing (AM) process. To characterize conventionally manufactured parts, many methods and standards are available, while no comprehensive standards or methods are available for AM parts. In this paper, a mechanical property characterization method is proposed that involves statistical analysis to select sample sizes and test coupon design considerations for metal printing, printing parameters, and applicability of existing testing standards for metal PBF, in addition to several mechanical properties. As proof of concept for the proposed characterization method, material and mechanical property characterization of the metal printed (EOS M280) EOS maraging steel grade 300 material is presented along with selected sample lots and relative errors. The characterization method presented in this paper is applicable to any metal AM process.