Defects, microstructure and associated mechanical properties of Inconel 718 fabricated by selective electron beam melting

Comprehensive characterizations and evaluations were conducted on the relationship between process parameters and density in the Inconel 718 (IN718) alloy fabricated by selective electron beam melting (SEBM). Additionally, the microstructure and anisotropy of tensile properties were evaluated in both the as-built state and after solution treatment and aging (STA). During different stages of energy density, the primary contributors to the porosity rate transitioned from the lack of fusion (LF) pores to the inclusion of spherical and shrinkage pores, resulting in a maximum relative density of 98.95 %. The as-built parts displayed notable parallel texture to the building direction, and a significant tensile anisotropy supported by the Taylor factor. The matrix of these parts consisted of & ouml;, gamma', gamma '', and carbonitrides, with a considerable presence of & ouml; precipitation leading to a reduction in gamma '' content and lower strength. After heat treatment, the & ouml; dissolved, and gamma '' precipitated extensively, while the carbonitrides and texture were retained. However, unique tensile results contradicting the predictions made by computational modeling were observed, we propose a new insight attributed to the presence of shrinkage pores along the build direction and use finite element analysis to support this view.