Analysis of Deformation Mechanisms in Metal Extrusion of 17–4 PH Stainless Steel: Influence of Layer Thickness and Contour Number

Background

Metal extrusion additive manufacturing (MEAM) is a cost-effective method for fabricating parts. Understanding the impact of processing parameters and their interactions on mechanical properties remains challenging.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the relationship between layer thickness, number of contours and the deformation mechanisms of 17–4 PH stainless steel parts produced through Atomic Diffusion Additive Manufacturing (ADAM).

Methods

Notched samples were fabricated with two different layer thicknesses (50 µm and 125 µm) and two contour configurations (2 and 4 contours). In-situ tensile tests combined with digital image correlation (DIC) were performed to investigate strain fields.

Results

The results indicate that the layer thickness significantly influences crack propagation, while also interacting with the number of contours. All samples achieved similar notch opening displacements (NOD) at failure. Differences in layer thickness and contour configurations led to distinct deformation mechanisms.

Conclusions

Variations in layer thickness and number of contours affected the deformation mechanisms and crack propagation in parts manufactured by MEAM, underscoring the importance of optimizing these parameters to enhance the mechanical performance.