Assessing the Co-Deformability of a Nickel-Based Superalloy-304L Stainless Steel Preform Manufactured through Laser Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

A bimetallic preform was manufactured by depositing nickel-based superalloy layers on a 304L stainless steel plate using a laser-based direct energy deposition technique. To study the bond integrity and co-deformability of the additively manufactured bimetallic, the preform was subjected to plastic deformation by cold rolling in a two-high rolling mill. Rolling was carried out in multiple directions by aligning the bimetallic interface plane parallel and perpendicular to the rolling plane. The effects of plastic deformation on microstructure and interfacial bonding were analyzed through detailed microstructural investigation coupled with mechanical property characterization. The study highlights various challenges associated with this bimetallic preform s co-deformation, which arise due to the differences in ductility, strength and microstructural features between nickel-based superalloy and 304L stainless steel.