In-situ layerwise monitoring of electron beam powder bed fusion using near-infrared imaging

A near-infrared camera (NIR) is employed to monitor layer-by-layer in-situ electron beam powder bed fusion (E-PBF). We aim at demonstrating that such a device allows various kinds of flaws be reliably captured thanks qualitative thermal information. Defects as distortions or uneven top surfaces can detected in the NIR-images. Information about temperature heterogeneities also linked with some occurring near overhangs. Some lack-of-fusion pores are revealed Unexpected localized defects appearing isolated elongated along building direction, and referred chimney pores, Pore-like described 3D based on Post-processing non-destructive characterization performed using X-ray computed tomography (XCT) carried out validate information provided by Comparisons between images obtained from NIR-images acquired processed image analysis, through XCT demonstrate morphology spatial distribution NIR-imaging.