Printability and Microstructure of Selective Laser Melting of WC/Co/Cr Powder

The selective laser melting process is a growing technology for the manufacture of parts with very complex geometry. However, not all materials are suitable for this process, involving rapid localized melting and solidification. Tungsten has difficulties due to the high melting temperature. This study focuses on the possibility of processing a WC/Co/Cr composite powder using selective laser melting. Samples were fabricated and characterized in terms of density, defects, microstructure and hardness. Tests were conducted with hatch spacing of 120 μm and process speed of 40 mm/s. A constant laser power of 100 W and a powder layer thickness of 30 μm were used. A relative density of 97.53%, and therefore a low porosity, was obtained at an energy density of 12.5 J/mm². Microscopic examination revealed the presence of small cracks and a very heterogeneous distribution of the grain size.