Material Properties of Ti6Al4V Parts Produced by Laser Metal Deposition

This paper presents our recent progress on the applications of laser metal deposited (LMD) Ti6Al4 V parts. The microstructure of the fabricated parts shows prior columnar β grains consisting of acicular α’ martensite. The yield and ultimate tensile strengths of the fabricated parts are superior to those of cast and annealed wrought material, while the elongation is lower. On-line monitoring and control of the LMD process was performed by monitoring the pool area and feedback controlling the laser power in order to decrease heat accumulation. The substrate dilution is diminished and the decreased heat accumulation reduces its effects on the microstructure.