Enhancing Flow Behavior and Mechanical Properties in Powder-Based Additive Manufacturing: The Impact of Particle Size Variations and Nanoparticle Coating on 316L Stainless Steel Powder

Journal of the Japan Society of Powder and Powder Metallurgy, vol. 72, pp. S563–S568

Abstract

This study investigates the crucial role of powder flowability in powder-bed-based additive manufacturing (AM), with a focus on the influence of particle size variations and nanoparticle coatings. In laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) processes, maintaining optimal flow is essential for ensuring high-quality parts and a stable process. The impact of fumed silica (SiO2) nanoparticle coatings on the initial flow behavior of standard gas-atomized 316L powder, as well as powders with modified size distributions (0-45 μm, 15-63 μm, 0-63 μm), was investigated. The results indicate that nanoparticle coatings improve flowability and bulk density, demonstrating economic potential for LPBF processing of coated powders. The powders that have been coated display a higher relative density and better mechanical properties, such as improved tensile strength, when compared to their uncoated counterparts.

Authors 3

1. Yannik Wilkens
   Affiliation as printed

   SMS group GmbH

2. Ebrahim Ghavampour Aachen Chair for Laser Technology LLT

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   RWTH Aachen University, Chair for Laser Technology LLT

   SMS group GmbH

3. Tim Lantzsch Aachen Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT

   Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology

   Affiliation as printed

   Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT