3D Visualization of Top Surface Structure and Pores of 3D Printed Ti-6Al-4V Samples Manufactured with TiC Heterogeneous Nucleation Site Particles

In this study, the effects of TiC heterogeneous nucleation site particles on the formability and microstructure of additive manufactured (AMed) Ti-6Al-4V samples fabricated by selective laser melting are investigated. Laser confocal microscopy and X-ray computer tomography techniques have been applied to AMed samples for visualization of the top surface and pore structures in 3D. The density of AMed Ti-6Al-4V samples was found to be increased by the addition of TiC particles. It could be concluded that the addition of heterogeneous nucleation site particles is one of the key technologies to achieve higher formability, improved microstructure, and enhanced mechanical properties for AMed products.