Selective laser melting of AISI316l: Process optimization and mechanical property evaluation

The influence of selective laser melting (SLM) process parameters such as laser power, build direction and scan hatch spacing on mechanical properties, microstructures and porosity formation in AISI 316L components is presented. Experimental activities are performed based on a statistical design-ofexperiment approach based on a three-factor, two-level experimental plane. Mechanical tests, as well as optical and SEM analyses were carried out to correlate the resulting microstructures and defects to the process parameters. In order to better characterize the process, gas type, gas flux, coater speed and component positioning were also taken into account.