| Abstract Scope |
A preform for forging is the initial shaped workpiece—typically created through casting, rolling, machining, or forging itself, specifically designed to optimize the forging process. The geometry closely resemble the final forged shape but with allowances for some material flow, die filling, and forging reduction. Robotic wire arc DED provides higher deposition rates, much faster than powder-bed or laser-based DED, enabling rapid fabrication of large components. The study encompassed a comprehensive evaluation of the Robotic wire arc deposition process, non-destructive inspection via phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT), microstructural characterization, and high-temperature mechanical performance, with an emphasis on deformation behavior of a 316 L stainless steel. The findings indicate that robotic wire arc directed energy deposition (DED) offers significant potential for the fabrication of near-net-shape preforms suitable for forgings. |