Selective laser melting of Nd-Fe-B: Single track study

Single tracks of Nd2Fe14B powder were obtained by selective laser melting with various process parameters. Initial powder material morphology and elemental composition were controlled. Single tracks were analyzed to study the material's melting features under laser irradiation and determine optimal printing regimes. 950 mm/s scanning speed is a boundary between complete melting and sintering. Single tracks morphology and their cross-sections dimensions and shape were investigated. A selective laser melting process window with a linear energy density of 300–500 J/m with 150–200 W of laser powder and 300–700 mm/s scanning speed was optimal for proper continuous melting of single tracks.