Characterization of Thin Walled Ti-6Al-4V Components Reduced via Electron Beam Melting

Abstract

Direct-metal energy beam SFF processes typically produce layers by scanning the contours and then filling in the area within the contour. Process parameters used to solidify contours are often different from those for fill areas. It is to be expected, therefore, that the contour and fill area regions will have different microstructures. This can have important ramifications for thin walled components such as biomedical implants whose slices have very little fill area. This paper characterizes the metallurgical differences in contour and fill areas in titanium components produced via Electron Beam Melting. The implications of these properties for thin walled components are described.