A framework for the optimization of powder-bed fusion process

Additive manufacturing (AM) facilitates the fabrication of intricate structures with exceptional engineering characteristics. In this study, selective laser melting (SLM) is used to melt and fuse Ti6Al4V powder using a high-density laser. The use of the laser enables the fabrication of complex parts with high accuracy. The properties of the fabricated part can be customized to fit its application by varying the process parameters such as laser power, scan speed, scan strategy, and hatch spacing. Thus, it is important to optimize these process parameters before fabricating parts for a specific application. The aforementioned process parameters are interdependent on each other and thereby making this process of optimizing the process parameters a vital one. In this study, a full factorial central composite design (CCD) of the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to study the effect of laser power, scan speed, and hatch spacing on the Vickers hardness values. The simulated models obtained using the RSM technique were then studied and thus establish a relationship between these factors.