Experimental analysis of Selective Laser Melting process for Ti-6Al-4V turbine blade manufacturing

The present work focuses on the use of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technique for manufacturing of near-net-shape aircraft component prototypes with Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy, which has already successfully employed for the production of turbine blades since it combines mechanical properties with excellent wear resistance. The main characteristic of SLM is layer manufacturing which allows to obtain complex shaped elements using three dimensional computer aided design data, with the addition of particular features like channels or cavities which can not been easily obtained with traditional technologies. The other key aspect in comparison with investment casting is shorter post-processing. The feasibility of manufacturing turbine blades with mentioned process using a laser sintered machine EOSINT M 270 (Titanium version) is analysed. The first experimental phase has dealt with the definition of processing parameters which would guarantee laser sintered part maximum density. Preliminary specimens have been manufactured to define any material-dependent scaling value to control dimensional shrinkage. Afterwards a prototype of a turbine blade has been produced using optimal process parameter set. The element positioning and support definition are discussed as they influence the overall job time and the need of post processing operations. Further analyses have been carried out to check the whole structure of the prototype using X-rays and Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection, aiming to point out possible imperfections; no defects have been detected. Furthermore, laser sintered part dimensional inspection has been successively performed via coordinate measuring machine. Eventually, the microstructure of the prototype has been examined.