Water and gas atomized AISI 316L powder for DED-LB: A comparative study on powder properties and build quality
- Powder properties are considered a key factor in part quality in laser additive manufacturing, although few studies have investigated the effects in directed energy deposition (DED). Water atomized (WA) and gas atomized (GA) powders are frequently used but may result in different part properties due to powder properties. To examine their qualification for DED-LB, this work examines powders and build quality of AISI 316L. Also, examination techniques are compared. The results show that the powder production has no relevant influence on porosity and Archimedian density of built parts. WA powders show good processability in DED-LB, despite unfavorable morphology. In contrast, WA specimen reach only 10% fracture elongation in tensile testing whereas GA-based specimen achieve 30%. Tensile strength of both is above 500 MPa. The reason for the lower mechanical property values can be attributed to defects and oxides. WA powders may provide a cost-effective alternative for DED-LB whenPowder properties are considered a key factor in part quality in laser additive manufacturing, although few studies have investigated the effects in directed energy deposition (DED). Water atomized (WA) and gas atomized (GA) powders are frequently used but may result in different part properties due to powder properties. To examine their qualification for DED-LB, this work examines powders and build quality of AISI 316L. Also, examination techniques are compared. The results show that the powder production has no relevant influence on porosity and Archimedian density of built parts. WA powders show good processability in DED-LB, despite unfavorable morphology. In contrast, WA specimen reach only 10% fracture elongation in tensile testing whereas GA-based specimen achieve 30%. Tensile strength of both is above 500 MPa. The reason for the lower mechanical property values can be attributed to defects and oxides. WA powders may provide a cost-effective alternative for DED-LB when mechanical load requirements are not important.…

