Fatigue and Strength Studies of Titanium 6Al–4V Fabricated by Direct Metal Laser Sintering

Abstract

Vibratory bending fatigue behavior of titanium 6Al–4V plate specimens manufactured via direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), powder bed fusion additive manufacturing (AM), is assessed. Motivation for the work is based on unprecedented performance demands for sixth-generation gas turbine engine technology that requires complex, lightweight components. Due to cost, schedule, and feasibility limitations associated with conventional manufacturing, AM aims to address ubiquitous component concepts. Though AM has promise in the engine community, process controls necessary for consistent material properties remain an enigma. The following manuscript compares variability of DMLS fatigue and strength to cold-rolled data. Results show discrepancies between DMLS and cold-rolled for fatigue and microstructure characteristics.