Effect of low-power remelting process on the formed specimen of TC4 titanium alloy by selective laser melting

Purpose This study aims to investigate the SLM remelting process and improved the overall performance of the formed samples greatly. It provides a strategy for effectively manufacturing high melting point materials such as TC4 on machines with limited laser power. By designing the experiment of the low-power remelting process (LPRP), the difference between direct high power forming quality and low power forming quality is explored. Which provides new considerations for SLM low-power forming TC4 specimens. Design/methodology/approach This experiment is based on energy density. In the experimental parameters, to ensure the sum of the remelting process energy density and the volume process forming energy density was consistent. Using different volume laser powers and remelting laser powers to form samples. Findings The authors found that using LPRP can form specimens with good surface quality and density, and the metallographic structure is beneficial to the mechanical properties. This method can use low-power equipment to form high melting point materials, reduce excessive energy gradients, produce multiple α' phases, and improve the overall performance of the specimen. Originality/value The LPRP has the following advantages: 1) Reduces the excessive energy gradient to produce multiple α' phases; 2) Provides a strategy for effectively manufacturing high melting point materials such as TC4 on machines with limited laser power.