Authors:

Simone Maffia (1), Ondrej Kovarik (2), Jaroslav Cech (2),Tobias Stittgen (1)

1- Ponticon GmbH, Germany

2- Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Czech Republic

Abstract:

Conventional powder Laser-Based Directed Energy Deposition (DED-LB) has revolutionized Additive Manufacturing (AM) by enabling the fabrication of large, support-free geometries and minimizing material waste through targeted deposition. Despite these advantages, conventional DED-LB faces challenges in microstructure control, primarily due to high heat inputs, limiting fine adjustments and compromising material integrity. In this work, the transformative potential of Ponticon’s 3D Extreme High-Speed Laser Metal Deposition (EHLA) for large-scale applications is investigated, highlighting its capabilities in both, deposition performance and microstructural control. 3D-EHLA’s high feed rates, reaching up to 200 m/min, not only significantly enhance deposition performance but also enable precise control over microstructures, thanks to a two-order-of-magnitude increase in cooling rates. As a result, tailored microstructures enable local modification of mechanical properties through process parameter adoption. This innovation addresses the limitations of conventional DED-LB, providing a viable solution for high-end large-scale AM components.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59499/EP246283203