Towards predicting process parameters for selective laser melting of titanium alloys through the modelling of melt pool characteristics

  • T van Rhijn Central University of Technology
  • W Du Preez Central University of Technology
  • M Maringa Central University of Technology
  • D Kouprianoff Central University of Technology
Keywords: Selective laser melting, melt pool characteristics, Ti6Al4V, modelling, process parameter optimisation

Abstract

Various researchers have investigated the use of experimental melt pool characterization to speed up the optimisation process of selective laser melting parameters and found this to be possible. From their studies, it has become clear that the incorporation of modelling into this approach could provide efficient and predictable results that would minimise the experimental validation work required. This paper reports on progress made towards characterising the melt pool through simulation. The development of a numerical model is discussed. Subsequently, experimental validation of the numerical model is presented. This is done through a comparison of the simulation results with the experimentally determined cross-sectional geometry of single tracks created with various sets of process parameters. Melt pool size and shape are considered. Based on these results, it is concluded that using an identical simulation setup, verified simulation method, and verified material properties, it was possible to accurately determine the melt pool geometry for some, but not all process parameters.

Author Biographies

T van Rhijn, Central University of Technology

Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa

W Du Preez, Central University of Technology

Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa

M Maringa, Central University of Technology

Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa

D Kouprianoff, Central University of Technology

Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa

Published
2022-01-25
How to Cite
van Rhijn, T., Du Preez, W., Maringa, M., & Kouprianoff, D. (2022). Towards predicting process parameters for selective laser melting of titanium alloys through the modelling of melt pool characteristics. Suid-Afrikaans Tydskrif Vir Natuurwetenskap En Tegnologie / <i>South African Journal of Science and Technology</I&gt;, 40(1), 168-173. Retrieved from http://satnt.co.za/index.php/satnt/article/view/899
Section
Conference of the South African Advanced Materials Initiative