Effect of heat treatment on hardness and microstructure of Mn-added Al-Cu-Mg-Zn-Si alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion

Much attention has been paid to laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) as a manufacturing process combine new functionalities mechanical components since it can achieve complex shapes that cannot be processed by conventional methods. LPBF-processed aluminum alloys exhibit high strength due their peculiar microstructure; however, LPBF parts contain substantial residual stresses, which are generally removed annealing at the expense of strength. Therefore, there is need develop do not require for stress relief after processing. In this study, we investigated simultaneous achievement enhancement and reduction aging treatment on adding manganese (Mn) high-strength alloy. Although existence state Mn clarified, delayed loss heat inhibiting spheroidization silicon-rich eutectic network extended time peak from 8 24 hours 150°C 1 180°C. The in stresses ranged 20 33%, depending temperatures. Our results demonstrated addition allows longer times or higher temperatures while increasing reducing stress.