Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) is a technique in which a layer of metal powder is
deposited, melted and solidified using a laser to create a solid layer of metal, with
consecutive 2D layers being micro welded to preceding layers to build up fully solid 3D
components. This technique has been the focus of considerable interest from research
groups and industrial sectors where it is acknowledged to be a multi-variate process capable
of producing highly complex geometries in low volumes. One of the most important factors
to control is the quality and properties of the powder feedstock used. In this chapter, the
various properties of metal powders that have been shown to affect the quality of fabricated
parts are discussed. How the powder flows and spreads within the L-PBF process, and how
the shape, size and composition of powders are investigated and can lead to different
defects and porosities in parts are presented. This chapter provides an overview of how the
mechanical and thermal properties of powders can impact the L-PBF process. The
sustainability and recycling of such material feedstock within the powder life cycle are
discussed. The international standards for analysis and safety considerations of powder
which are relevant to additive manufacturing are also presented.
Metadata
Item Type:
Book Section
Refereed:
Yes
Uncontrolled Keywords:
Powder Rheology; Powder Shape and Morphology; Powder Composition;
Mechanical Properties; Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF); Powder Sustainability