Microstructure and Tensile Strength of Rapid Manufacturing Parts

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to investigate the microstructure and tensile strength of Ti6Al4V pre-alloyed powders produced by a direct metal laser sintering technique. Traditionally, Ti6Al4V products for biomedical applications were produced through hot working or machining of wrought semi-finished products. A change in the production route for manufacturing Ti6Al4V products, from the more traditional methods to an additive manufacturing route, requires an investigation of microstructure and mechanical properties because these are strongly influenced by the production route. The microstructure obtained through rapid solidification during laser sintering shows a very fine α+β lamellar morphology. There is also evidence of martensite which was expected due to high solidification rate of the liquid pool from a temperature above the β-transus during the laser sintering process. Structurally, good mechanical properties which are comparable to the bulk material were obtained.