Effect of build direction and surface finish on wear behavior of AlSi10Mg alloy casted by laser powder bed fusion

In this research the Al 10 SiMg alloy were printed with different build direction (horizontal, vertical and inclined) using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) method. The primary aim of this present study was to investigate the effect of build direction and surface finish condition on wear behavior of laser powder bed fusion printed AlSi 10 Mg alloy. The significance of printing direction and surface finish was revealed via wear behavior using pin-on-disc. According to the results the horizontally casted alloy shows lesser surface roughness. Subsequently the rough finished AlSi 10 Mg alloy on to the abrasive surface produced less wear loss. The fine finished alloy produced higher wear loss due to adhesion and erosion wear loss mechanism. Overall the horizontally casted cum rough finished AlSi 10 Mg alloy showed better wear resistance than other print direction and surface finish condition. The optical microscope and scanning electron microscope worn surface morphology confirmed the scar formation on fine finished AlSi 10 Mg alloy. These wear resistance improved AlSi 10 Mg alloy could be used as building material in aircraft and automobile applications where light weight and high wear resistance properties are required.