Thermo-mechanical modelling of stress relief heat treatments after laser-based powder bed fusion

Laser-based powder bed fusion, due to its layer-by-layer nature, results in a unique stress profile part after the primary production process. The residual stresses are typically tensile near top, while they compressive bottom of part. When it is removed without proper precautions, will bend excessively. In order alleviate this deformation, relief heat treatment can be applied. paper, such relaxation modelled investigate effect post-processing parameters. model uses an Arrhenius-type creep equation simulate influence temperature and dwell time on field relatively simple cantilever beam produced Ti-6Al-4V. Via validation simulations, shown represented accurately. validated used predict deformation that from treating under various conditions. simulations ultimately allow choosing optimal conditions obtain given reduction level, reducing need for extensive experimental investigations.