Electron beam powder bed fusion (EB-PBF) additive manufacturing is an appealing option for producing parts using challenging alloys. Since EB-PBF takes place under a hard vacuum the process is inherently clean and repeatable. Challenges associated with electrical charging of the powder bed have been overcome by introducing a small amount of positively charge ions into the chamber, dramatically reducing the odds of “smoking” the powder and increasing the recyclability and ease of machine turnover. EWI has recently developed the process parameters to print C103 in an electrically charge-neutral EB-PBF system, the Wayland Additive Calibur3. This work presents an overview of using these EB-PBF process parameters to print C103 (Nb-10Hf-1Ti) and a detailed characterization of the printed material. The material strength at a range of temperatures is presented, along with microstructure, surface roughness, and geometric accuracy for several key features of interest. The results show that while EB-PBF is a highly promising method for producing near net-shape components, careful consideration of the material structure and operating environment must be made during the design and production process.
Learning Objectives:
understand the advantages of charge-neutral electron beam powder bed fusion (EB-PBF).
compare the mechanical properties of EB-PBF C103 to traditionally manufactured material.
identify the capabilities for this system to print near-net shape components with geometric precision.
