Effect of nAl_2O_3 on the part density and microstructure during the laser-based powder bed fusion of AlSi_(10)Mg composite

摘要

Purpose - In recent years, additive manufacturing techniques have attracted much research attention because of their ability to fabricate customised parts with complex geometry. The range of composites suitable for laser-based powder bed fusion technique is limited, and has not been investigated yet. This paper aims to study the fabrication of AlSi_(10)Mg reinforced with nAl_2O_3 using the laser-based powder bed fusion technique. Design/methodology/approach - An experimental approach was used to investigate the densification of AlSi_(10)Mg-nAl_2O_3 composites using laser-based powder bed fusion technique. Optimisation of the porosity was performed, and microstructure evolution was evaluated. Findings - In this study, laser volumetric energy density (approximately 109 J/mm~3) was found to be required for the fabrication of AlSi_(10)Mg-nAl_2O_3 composites with a relative volumetric density approximating 99%. The use of laser volumetric energy density resulted in larger grains. Columnar grain structure was observed via the use of electron backscatter diffraction mapping. Originality/value - This paper examines the processing of new aluminium composite material suitable for the fabrication via the laser-based powder bed fusion technique.