Dimensional analysis for the definition of the influence of process parameters in selective laser melting of Ti–6Al–4V alloy

Abstract

This article aims to use the methodology of dimensional analysis to determine the influence of process parameters in selective laser melting of metal powders. The complexity of the selective laser melting process, in fact, does not allow a full evaluation of a physical model, involving all the influencing variables. Through dimensional analysis, the article intends to find out an appropriate definition of a set of non-dimensional groups in order to represent the output parameters. The article, therefore, focuses on the impact of the most influential ones, referring to the production of samples made of Ti–6Al–4V powder using a laser sintering machine EOSINT M270. Specimens are examined in terms of their relative density, given its importance in the design and production of elements for dental implants. Adequate exposure strategies based on the results provided may allow careful designs in order to provide tailored porosity to enhance biological fixation and achieve long-term stability.