Microstructure and properties of FeCrMoVC tool steel produced by selective laser melting

• Published in: Materials & design 2016-01, Vol.89, p.335-341
• Main Authors: Sander, J., Hufenbach, J., Giebeler, L., Wendrock, H., Kühn, U., Eckert, J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Hardness; Mechanical properties; Microstructure; Selective laser melting; Steel
• ISSN: 0264-1275; 1873-4197
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2015.09.148

This paper demonstrates the successful processing of a high-strength Fe85Cr4Mo8V2C1 tool steel by selective laser melting (SLM). Based on tailored parameter variation studies, crack-free and highly dense FeCrMoVC parts (99.99% relative density) are obtained by this processing method. The applied localized high heat inputs during very short interaction times result in a fine, homogeneous microstructure composed of martensite, austenite, and carbides. This combination of phases together with the morphology of the microstructure results in excellent mechanical properties, such as a microhardness of 900HV 0.1 (ca. 67 HRC) and a compressive strength of about 3800MPa combined with a fracture strain up to 15%. Therefore, the SLM processing of this alloy enables a further increase of the hardness and compressive strength compared to the as-cast state. Altogether, processing the FeCrMoVC steel by SLM as one key additive manufacturing technology shows high potential for advanced tool design. [Display omitted] •High-strength Fe85Cr4Mo8V2C1 tool steel was successfully processed by SLM.•Crack-free and highly dense parts (99.99% relative density) were obtained.•Mechanical properties are improved compared to the as-cast state.•Microhardness 900 HV0.1, compression strength 3800MPa, fracture strain up to 15%.