Abstract | Laser consolidation is an emerging novel computer-aided manufacturing process that produces net-shape functional parts layer by layer directly from a CAD model by using a laser beam to melt the injected powder and resolidifying it on the previous pass. As an alternative to the conventional machining process, this novel manufacturing process builds complete net-shape functional parts or features on an existing part by adding instead of removing material. Ti-6A1-4V alloy is widely used in the aerospace, medical and other industries. In this work, functional properties of laser consolidated Ti-6A1-4V have been investigated. The laser consolidated Ti-6A1-4V material is metallurgically sound and free of cracks and porosity. The components built by the laser consolidated Ti-6A1-4V show good surface finish and dimensional accuracy. The mechanical properties of laser-consolidated Ti-6A1-4V samples are evaluated. The microstructure is analyzed in details using optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Composition of the laser-consolidated Ti-6A1-4V material is also analyzed by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). |
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