A study of the SLM process on produced aluminium part

Nowadays, the use of the SLM process is developing, especially for the manufacturing of metal parts. Aluminium and its alloys are strong candidates for this technology. Its low density, combined with design optimization made possible by additive manufacturing, provides the opportunity to reduce structure weight which is a central development axis for the automotive and aerospace industries. Final SLMed parts properties are difficult to predict due to flaws generated during manufacturing (porosity, hot cracking, surface condition, etc.). Many factors can influence the material processed by SLM (parametric elements, machine environment, raw material, etc.). This study aims to obtain a better understanding of the physical phenomena during the process through a complete study from the powder to the final part. Powder analysis (flowability, granulometry, geometry, and hygrometry), final parts (porosity, microstructures, and roughness) and camera observations during the process will be feasible. The study focused on an AlSi7Mg0.6 aluminum alloy. During this study, many questions emerged when choosing the characterization technique. Indeed, the tools currently used in additive manufacturing are those used in conventional manufacturing but sometimes these tools or their parameterization seem to be hardly workable for this process. Feedback will be presented in this study.