Effect of interlayer cooling on the microstructure and mechanical properties of titanium alloys fabricated using directed energy deposition

The effect of interlayer cooling in directed energy deposition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of two titanium alloys (Ti–6Al–4 V and Ti–2.5Fe–4.5Al–0.25Si) was investigated in this study. On the one hand, the general process of directed energy deposition provided sufficient time for element partitioning, resulting in the formation of the isothermal ω. On the other hand, interlayer cooling interfered with element partitioning and isothermal ω formation. It induced the formation of the supersaturated α. The isothermal ω or supersaturated α, generated based on the fabrication conditions, significantly influenced the mechanical properties of these alloys. The higher the β-phase stability of the alloy, the greater is the change in its mechanical properties depending on the fabrication conditions. This study provides guidelines for the design of new alloys manufactured using directed energy deposition.