Abstract
This work studies the tensile properties of Ti-6Al-4V samples produced by laser powder bed based Additive Manufacturing (AM), for different build orientations. The results showed high scattering of the yield and tensile strength and low fracture elongation. The subsequent fractographic investigation revealed the presence of tungsten particles on the fracture surface. Hence, its detection and impact on tensile properties of AM Ti-6Al-4V were investigated. X-ray Computed Tomography (X-ray CT) scanning indicated that these inclusions were evenly distributed throughout the samples, however the inclusions area was shown to be larger in the load-bearing plane for the vertical specimens. A microstructural study proved that the mostly spherical tungsten particles were embedded in the fully martensitic Ti-6Al-4V AM material. The particle size distribution, the flowability and the morphology of the powder feedstock were investigated and appeared to be in line with observations from other studies. X-ray CT scanning of the powder however made the high density particles visible, where various techniques, commonly used in the certification of powder feedstock, failed to detect the contaminant. As the detection of cross contamination in the powder feedstock proves to be challenging, the use of only one type of powder per AM equipment is recommended for critical applications such as Space parts.
Highlights
Additive Manufacturing (AM), or 3D printing includes a large family of processes having a common basic principle: the continuous, local addition of material to obtain fit-for-purpose hardware [1,2]
This study shows that X-ray CT can be used for this purpose a complementary technique, allowing the characterization of largerofpowder compared as a complementary technique, allowing the characterization larger samples, powder when samples, when as a Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
The mechanical properties of Ti-6Al-4V specimens manufactured by AM were assessed
Summary
Additive Manufacturing (AM), or 3D printing includes a large family of processes having a common basic principle: the continuous, local addition of material to obtain fit-for-purpose hardware [1,2]. This is opposed to classical machining processes, where material is cut away from large blocks of so-called “semi-finished products”. AM allows an increase in design freedom and, is seen as one key enabling technology for high end manufacturing, including Space applications. Many more components are envisioned to be manufactured using AM, including primary structures or other mission-critical parts, and even the production of these parts in orbit. The Space domain underlines the vast potential of AM regarding costs savings and increased performance
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