Laser Operating Windows Prediction in Selective Laser-Melting Processing of Metallic Powders: Development and Validation of a Computational Fluid Dynamics-Based Model

The rapidly ascending trend of additive manufacturing techniques requires a tailoring of existing solidification models and the development of new numerical tools. User-friendly numerical models can be a valid aid in order to optimize operating parameter ranges with the scope to extend the modelling tools to already existing or innovative alloys. In this paper a modelling approach is described simulating the generation of single tracks on a powder bed system in a selective laser melting process. The approach we report attains track geometry as a function of: alloy thermo-physical properties, laser speed and power, powder bed thickness. Aim of the research is to generate a numerical tool able to predict laser power and speed ranges in manufacturing porosity-free printed parts without lack of fusion and keyhole pores. The approach is based on a simplified description of the physical aspects. Main simplifications concern: the laser energy input, the formation of the pool cavity, and the powder bed thermo-physical properties. The model has been adjusted based on literature data providing the track’s geometry (width and depth) and relative density. Such data refer to different alloys. In particular, Ti6Al4V, Inconel625, Al7050, 316L and pure copper are considered. We show that the printing process presents features common to all alloys. This allows the model to predict the printing behavior of an alloy from its physical properties, avoiding the need to perform specific experimental activities.