| Abstract | Laser consolidation (LC) is a novel manufacturing process that produces net-shape functional and metallurgically sound components by adding material based on a CAD model. In this paper, laser consolidation of Al 4047 alloy is demonstrated. The LC process successfully built metallurgically sound Al 4047 alloy samples on a Al 6061 substrate. The microstructure of LC Al 4047 material was examined in detail using optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, while its chemical composition was analysed by x-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The tensile properties of the LC Al 4047 material were evaluated and compared with similar wrought and cast aluminum alloys. In addition, several LC Al 4047 samples were produced to demonstrate the capability of the process. Laser consolidation of Al alloys has many potential applications in aerospace, mold-making and other industries for rapid tooling, small quantity production, and repair of expensive components. |
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