Effect Of Powder Variability (Batch, Reuse And Storage) In A Laser Powder Bed Fusion Process

Authors:

G. Gaillard (1), M. Soulier (1), C. Flament (1), P. Faucherand (1), V. Bonnefoy (1), V. Chastand (2), C. Marchand-Maillet (2), G. Bonnefont (3)

1-Université Grenoble Alpes, CEA, LITEN, France

2-Dassault Aviation Argonay, France

3-AddUp SAS, France

Abstract:

Powder characteristics in a laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) process have a major impact on the quality of the parts produced [1] [2]. An in-depth study was done to assess the effect of powder properties on LPBF-densified materials, focusing on two alloys (titanium and aluminum). Both powders were processed in a wide range of conditions in order to determine their induced effects: batch variability at specification thresholds, powder after multiple reuses and storage-aged powder. For each configuration, the powders and the LPBF-densified materials were subjected to physical, chemical, microstructural and mechanical analyses. The study of the effects of powder characteristics led to define recommendations for the management of supply, reuse and storage so as to optimize production costs while maintaining an acceptable quality level.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59499/EP246277018