Tungsten Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is the process that allows the production of complex geometry and lightweight components. Thanks to the high density of refractory metals, AM could be a possible solution for their application in the aerospace field and for biomedical or future nuclear fusion devices. Yet, Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) of refractory metals as Ta, Mo, and W faces some challenges due to their main properties: high melting point, heat conductivity, and susceptibility to cracks. The purpose of this study is to optimize the process parameters in order to produce high-density Tungsten parts by LPBF on an EOS M100 (maximum power of 170\u202fW). The characterization is performed through physical properties measurements and microstructural analysis. Single Scan Tracks (SSTs) are produced on the top surfaces of Tungsten blocks to evaluate the process parameters that give regular-shape and continuous melt-pools. Both analytical and experimental optimizations of process parameters were performed. Micro-hardness measurements were done for dense bulk specimens. Finally, a description of susceptibility to cracks of additively manufactured Tungsten was performed.