Microstructure and hardness evolution of laser metal deposited AA5087 wall-structures

Abstract

Wire-based laser metal deposition enables to manufacture structures with very high deposition rates in comparison to powder-based laser additive manufacturing. However, this advantage is generally accompanied with a high energy input. Thus, an accumulation of heat within the structure can result. In addition, the heat conduction conditions can also change with increasing structure height, leading to inhomogeneous microstructural formation along the part. The present study deals with the evolution of the microstructure and hardness in laser metal deposited AA5087 wall structures. In this regard, two samples processed at adapted parameters for different deposition rates are investigated.