The Effect of Hatch Angles on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Selective Laser Melting 316L Stainless Steel

Abstract

In this paper, the effects of hatch angles on the microstructure and mechanical properties of 316L stainless steel parts fabricated by selective laser melting are studied. In order to further observe the evolution of microstructures and textures, optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) techniques are used to characterize the samples. Finally, TUKON 2100 measuring machine is used to test the Vickers microhardness of different surfaces. The results show the effect of hatch angles on the length and width of the molten pool is not much different. Compared with 0°, the grain still retains the orientation distribution along the building direction (Z-axis), while the orientation feature is more weakened along the direction (X-axis) when the hatch angle is 67°. The hatch angles have a tiny influence on hardness.