Experimental Investigation of Laser Metal Deposition of Functionally Graded Copper and Steel

Abstract

Laser metal deposition is an emerging technology for producing fully dense metallic parts. This process shows a promising future for the deposition of functionally graded steel - copper alloys. Good thermal conductivity of copper and a high wear resistance of steel can be achieved in dies and cores. However, to accomplish this, there are many issues to be resolved, such as the formation of an undesirable phase, solidification cracking, porosity at the interface and difference in thermal coefficient of expansion between steel and copper. The influences of process variables, such as laser power, laser scan speed, composition, powder flow rate, on the success of the process, should be studied.