Effect of laser parameters on microstructure and mechanical properties of Al–Ni–Sc–Zr alloys fabricated by laser powder bed fusion

Abstract

The processability, microstructure and mechanical properties of a near eutectic AlNiScZr alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) are investigated. The optimal processing windows for the LPBF alloy are determined. The results indicate that laser power exerts a predominant influence on the relative density of the as-built alloy. Elevated laser power can lead to increased relative density. Laser scanning speed exerts a significant impact on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-built alloys. An increase in the laser scanning speed can facilitate the growth of coarse columnar grains in the coarse grain region and suppress the formation of ultrafine equiaxed grain bands. Furthermore, the increase in the laser scanning speed can result in a reduction in the size of the cells, which in turn leads to an enhancement in the strength of the alloys. This study examines the evolution of the microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-built alloy as a function of laser scanning speed. By elucidating the relationship between laser parameters, microstructure and mechanical properties, the objective is to provide fundamental guidance for tuning the solidification structures and mechanical properties of LPBF AlNiScZr alloys by selecting appropriate laser parameters.