About this Abstract |
Meeting |
2024 Annual International Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (SFF Symp 2024)
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Symposium
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2024 Annual International Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (SFF Symp 2024)
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Presentation Title |
Blue Laser Powder-blown Directed Energy Deposition of Niobium |
Author(s) |
Rujing Zha, Jihoon Jeong, Nhung Thi Cam Nguyen, KenHee Ryou, Faith Rolark, James Male, Jian Cao |
On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Rujing Zha |
Abstract Scope |
The push towards ever higher operating temperatures in gas turbine engines has led engine hot section development to explore the use of refractory metals such as niobium in place of traditional superalloys. Laser powder directed energy deposition (DED) enables grading niobium alloy variants, increasing design freedom. However, niobium alloys’ high melting temperature and low absorptivity to near infrared laser light complicate fabrication of niobium alloys via laser DED. In this work, we address this challenge by developing laser powder DED of pure niobium using a 500 W 450 nm wavelength blue laser. Single trace experiments were performed to correlate laser power and powder flow rate with dilution and clad height. Using the optimal process settings, an over 99% densified cube was fabricated. Additional cube builds correlated scan speed and laser power with densification and grain size. This work paves the way for flexible future fabrication of niobium alloy engine components. |
Proceedings Inclusion? |
Definite: Post-meeting proceedings |