Additive manufacturing of inconel 617 superalloy by LAM-DED and WAAM and its in-situ monitoring

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a transformative technology for producing intricate, high-performance components, notably in the aerospace and energy production sector, where materials must withstand extreme environmental conditions. Inconel 617, which primarily consists of Nickel, Chromium, Cobalt and Chromium is a Ni-based superalloy, which is very well suited for such demanding applications due to its exceptional high temperature strength, oxidation and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures. However, manufacturing of In-617 through conventional methods remains a challenge due to the various problems associated with it such as poor machinability, σ-Phase Precipitation, tendency of thermal cracking and various machining difficulties such as rapid tool degradation and work hardening. The present study explores the fabrication of Inconel 617 using two prominent Directed Energy Deposition (DED) - based AM techniques: Laser Additive Manufacturing - Directed Energy Deposition (LAM-DED) and Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), with a particular emphasis on in-situ process monitoring. This study focuses on the Realization of In-617 in Additive manufacturing route for catering heavy industries, particularly the energy production sectors. Preliminary investigations were conducted using LAM-DED to assess laser-material interactions and understand basic melt pool characteristics.