Process Variable Effects on Laser Deposited Ti-6Al-4V

An initial study ofthe processing parameters affecting deposition quality ofTi-6AI-4V was conducted using the LENSTM direct laser deposition system. The significant number ofprocess variables presents a problem in determining relative effects. A few ofthe easily identifiable variables were isolated and the deposits were characterized qualitatively by comparison oflayer adhesion, porosity, and dimensional accuracy. These characteristics were compared for each deposit while processing variables such as laser power, travel speed, and hatch spacing were varied. The results led to the development of a set of optimum processing conditions that produce a quality deposit.