Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Unalloyed Tungsten: A Review of Process, Structure, and Properties Relationships

Abstract

Tungsten (W) as a structural component has grown roots in many special applications owing to its radiation-shielding capabilities and its properties at elevated temperatures. The high ductile-brittle transition temperature (DBTT) and the very high melting point of tungsten however have limited its processability to certain technologies such as powder metallurgy. Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) has been introduced in recent years as an alternative for manufacturing tungsten parts to overcome the design limitations posed by powder metallurgy technology. A review of the literature shows significant improvements in the quality of tungsten components produced by LPBF, implying a strong potential for manufacturing tungsten with this technology and a need for further research on this subject. This review paper presents the current state-of-the-art in LPBF of unalloyed tungsten, with a focus on the effect of process parameters on the developed structure/properties and identifies current knowledge gaps.