Research on Post-processing Microstructure and Property of Titanium Components with Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

Abstract

Additive manufacturing of titanium component holds promise to deliver benefit such as reduced cost, weight and carbon emissions during both manufacture and use. To capitalize on the benefits, it must be shown that the mechanical performance of parts produced by additive manufacturing can meet design requirement that are typically based on wrought material performance properties. Of particular concern for safety critical structures is the fatigue property of parts produced by additive manufacturing. Microstructure evolution, and its influence on mechanical properties of the alloy in the as-fabricated condition, has been documented by various researchers. However, fatigue crack propagation and the effects of the directional structure have not been sufficiently studied, imposing a barrier for this technology’s potential extension to high-integrity applications. In this study, fatigue life (S-N) and fatigue crack growth (FCG) both parallel and perpendicular to the build directions was studied. The interaction between the directional as-fabricated SLM microstructure and FCG was investigated and compared to that of the hot isostatic pressing (HIP) specimens with and without the stress relief after fabricating with SLM.