Nanoindentation study on the mechanical behaviour of conventional and additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4V

Abstract

The demand of Ti-6Al-4V has been increasing with the elevation of the aviation industry. By virtue of its exceptional mechanical properties, it has been adopted by other industries as well. In recent years, additive manufacturing (AM), more commonly known as 3D printing, become a prevalent procedure in producing prototypes or finalised parts swiftly and cost-effectively. Electron beam melting (EBM) is a desired AM technique for the fabrication of Ti–6Al–4V parts due to titanium’s high affinity for oxygen. In this report, a comparison of EBM and cast Ti-6Al-4V specimens is thoroughly investigated by using Vickers and Nanoindentation hardness tests. Also, investigation of the microstructure of the EBM specimens concerning its build height is analysed. In addition, an analysis of the surface roughness effects on mechanical properties is examined.