Research Progress on Additive Manufactured Refractory Metals

Owning to high melting temperature, refractory metals possess excellent properties at high temperature, hence they are crucial materials in parts bearing extreme thermal conditions such as engine, gas turbine, rocket, missile, etc. So refractory metal parts are very important in military equipment and civil life. However, it is very difficult to fabricate due to the high melting temperature and high thermal conductivity. Additive manufacturing is a new technique developed in recent years, and it possesses unique advantages thus providing a possible fabrication route for refractory metals. In this paper, research progress on additive manufacturing of tungsten and tungsten alloy, porous tantalum, niobium alloy, molybdenum alloy and refractory high entropy alloys were summarized. It may be helpful for researchers dedicated in related field.