Effect of processing parameters on the microstructure and density of LPBF processed CoCrMo

¹ Department of Mechanical Engineering, North West University, South Africa.
² Centre for Materials Engineering, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
³ Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
⁴ eNtsa, Nelson Mandela University, South Africa

^* Corresponding author: marne.vanniekerk@nwu.ac.za

Abstract

Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) is an additive manufacturing technique highly sensitive to processing parameters, significantly influencing the resulting porosity, microstructure and mechanical properties of components. This study examines the relationship between Volumetric Energy Density (VED), defect formation, and microstructural characteristics in LPBF-manufactured Co-28Cr-6Mo alloy. Twenty-four specimens produced via LPBF were evaluated utilising Archimedes’ principle for density measurements, complemented by Optical Microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The results provide insights into how variations in LPBF parameters affect porosity levels and microstructural evolution, contributing toward optimising processing conditions for enhanced material performance.