Freeform Laser Consolidated H13 and CPM 9V Tool Steels

Abstract

As a novel computer-aided materials additive manufacturing process, the freeform laser consolidation (LC) can directly produce functional shapes (features or structures) through a "layer-upon-layer" deposition. In this research, LC processability of both H13 and CPM 9V tool steels and their mechanical performance thus obtained were investigated. Both laser-consolidated tool steels were metallurgically sound with no crack, exhibiting layer-wise refined solidified structures with dominated martensite and small amount of retained austenite, as well as composition-dependent carbides. Laser-consolidated H13 could outperform its wrought counterpart mechanically as measured by tensile strength/strain, and bonding strength as well as sliding wear resistance; laser-consolidated CPM 9V could provide excellent sliding wear resistance superior to the conventional widely used tool steel (such as wrought D2). These unique microstructures and mechanical properties could be tailored for niche applications in additive manufacturing of tools, molds, and dies. © 2013 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada.