Selective laser melting of low-alloyed titanium based alloy with a large solidification range

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Metallurgy
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Titanium alloys are crucial for various industries.
• Understanding the processing-structure-property relationships in novel alloys is essential.
• Selective Laser Melting (SLM) offers advanced manufacturing capabilities for complex geometries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) parameters on the microstructure, porosity, and hot cracking susceptibility of a novel alpha + beta type Ti-Fe-Cu-Sn alloy.
• To determine the optimal SLM processing conditions for producing dense and crack-free samples.
• To evaluate the electrochemical characteristics of the SLM-processed alloy and correlate them with microstructural features.

Main Methods:

• Thermodynamic calculations using Thermo-Calc software.
• Powder production via plasma sputtering.
• Additive manufacturing using Selective Laser Melting (SLM).
• Microstructural analysis and porosity/cracking assessment.
• Electrochemical testing.

Main Results:

• Optimal SLM regimes for dense, crack-free samples were identified within a volumetric energy density range of 250-300 J/mm³.
• The formation of a non-equilibrium Ti₂Cu phase was correlated with changes in the alloy's electrochemical behavior.
• Selective Laser Melting (SLM) parameters significantly influence porosity and hot cracking susceptibility.

Conclusions:

• Specific volumetric energy density ranges are critical for successful SLM of this Ti-Fe-Cu-Sn alloy.
• The phase composition, particularly the presence of Ti₂Cu, dictates the electrochemical properties.
• Further research should explore the long-term stability and performance of the alloy in different environments.