SME CAM2 - Potential of Calphad Calculations in Development of Ni-base Alloys for AM by LPBF – Part II

Important results from the project

The project has been conducted as SME-activity within the frames of Vinnova´s Competenscenter CAM2. New material compositions are needed for additive manufacturing through LPBF because rapid solidification and cooling can cause cracking. Modeling has been successfully used in previous development projects to develop new Al and steel alloys for additive manufacturing. Now the potential for modeling as support for the development of additively manufactured Ni-base alloys has been investigated. A better understanding of how calculations can be used for material development has been achieved.

Expected long term effects

In the long term, new improved Ni-base alloys for laser additive manufacturing can be developed guided by the results generated in the project. An on-line alloy optimization tool has been developed outside the project, but the results in the project have been useful in understanding possible applications.

Approach and implementation

The work was mainly carried out by Innomat. Through meetings a continious contact was maintained with researchers at Chalmers, and representatives of ThermoCalc AB, Siemens and Höganäs. Chalmers carried out trials, and examples of use and experiences were shared by the representatives from companies.