Currently, the number of commercially avalaible ferrous alloys in PBF-LB is limited to a select group of stainless and tool steels. Research in CAM2 has focused on the development of C-containing steels for PBF-LB that can be used in structural applications.
To date, processing windows have been established that allow for the production of fully dense (>99.8%), defect-free components for a variety of Fe-C and low alloyed steels. To prove this capability a control ring for an energy-efficient hydralic pump was produced with 4130 steel using CAM2 developed parameters.
The component was chosen for PBF-LB production due to its complex internal cooling channels and internal structures that are extremely difficult to machine.
Researchers: William Hearn and Marie Fischer, Chalmers
Industry partners: Volvo Cars & Höganäs
Material: 4130 Steel (Höganäs)
Additive process used: Laser Powder-Bed Fusion
Part size: 11,6 x 11,6 x 7,6 (cm)