Process development and characterization of additively manufactured nickel–titanium shape memory parts

Abstract

Additive manufacturing of nickel–titanium has two distinct advantages over conventional methods. It circumvents the difficulties associated with machining of nickel–titanium and it provides a freedom-of-design that conventional processing cannot match. In this article, we analyze the effects of processing parameters on the structural and functional outcomes of selective laser melted nickel–titanium parts. Notably, we expand the parametric envelope compared to the previous studies by utilizing a higher power 300 W laser. Optimal process parameters are identified for additively manufacturing of nickel–titanium parts with verified shape memory behavior and complex structures with accurate features are fabricated.